Table of Contents
Addiction .................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Agency ........................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Atonement ................................................................................................................................................................. 6
Attitude .................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Baptism .................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Believe ...................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Book of Mormon ...................................................................................................................................................... 13
Christianity ............................................................................................................................................................... 16
Death........................................................................................................................................................................ 16
Education ................................................................................................................................................................. 18
Endure ...................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Example .................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Faith ......................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Family ....................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Fasting ...................................................................................................................................................................... 25
Fathers ..................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Forgive...................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Gifts of the Spirit ...................................................................................................................................................... 34
Government ............................................................................................................................................................. 34
Gratitude .................................................................................................................................................................. 36
Holy Ghost................................................................................................................................................................ 39
Jesus Christ............................................................................................................................................................... 45
Jesus Christ: Come Unto Me .................................................................................................................................... 46
Jesus Christ: Come, Follow Me ................................................................................................................................ 46
Joseph Smith ............................................................................................................................................................ 47
Journal...................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Joy ............................................................................................................................................................................ 48
Judgment.................................................................................................................................................................. 48
Leadership ................................................................................................................................................................ 49
Life............................................................................................................................................................................ 50
Love .......................................................................................................................................................................... 55
Marriage................................................................................................................................................................... 57
Millennium ............................................................................................................................................................... 60
Mission ..................................................................................................................................................................... 61
Morality.................................................................................................................................................................... 63
Mothers.................................................................................................................................................................... 64
Music ........................................................................................................................................................................ 68
Obedience ................................................................................................................................................................ 68
Parenting .................................................................................................................................................................. 74
Patience ................................................................................................................................................................... 86
Peace ........................................................................................................................................................................ 86
Perseverance............................................................................................................................................................ 87
Prayer ....................................................................................................................................................................... 87
Priesthood ................................................................................................................................................................ 94
Prophets ................................................................................................................................................................... 96
Prosperity ................................................................................................................................................................. 96
Protection ................................................................................................................................................................ 96
Relief Society ............................................................................................................................................................ 97
Repentance .............................................................................................................................................................. 97
Resurrection ........................................................................................................................................................... 102
Restoration............................................................................................................................................................. 102
Sabbath .................................................................................................................................................................. 103
Sacrament .............................................................................................................................................................. 105
Sacrifice .................................................................................................................................................................. 106
Salvation................................................................................................................................................................. 107
Scriptures ............................................................................................................................................................... 107
Service .................................................................................................................................................................... 109
Sin........................................................................................................................................................................... 111
Spirit ....................................................................................................................................................................... 111
Temple ................................................................................................................................................................... 111
Temptation............................................................................................................................................................. 116
Testimony............................................................................................................................................................... 117
Tithing .................................................................................................................................................................... 120
Trials ....................................................................................................................................................................... 121
Word of Wisdom .................................................................................................................................................... 125
Work....................................................................................................................................................................... 125
Addiction
Addiction
2 Nephi 1:13 O that ye would awake; awake from a deep sleep, yea, even from the sleep of hell, and shake off
the awful chains by which ye are bound, which are the chains which bind the children of men, that they are
carried away captive down to the eternal gulf of misery and woe.
2 Nephi 28:21 And others will he pacify, and lull them away into carnal security, that they will say: All is well in
Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well -- and thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully
down to hell.
Jacob 2:6-10 Yea, it grieveth my soul and causeth me to shrink with shame before the presence of my Maker,
that I must testify unto you concerning the wickedness of your hearts.
7 And also it grieveth me that I must use so much boldness of speech concerning you, before your wives and
your children, many of whose feelings are exceedingly tender and chaste and delicate before God, which thing is
pleasing unto God;
8 And it supposeth me that they have come up hither to hear the pleasing word of God, yea, the word which
healeth the wounded soul.
9 Wherefore, it burdeneth my soul that I should be constrained, because of the strict commandment which I
have received from God, to admonish you according to your crimes, to enlarge the wounds of those who are
already wounded, instead of consoling and healing their wounds; and those who have not been wounded,
instead of feasting upon the pleasing word of God have daggers placed to pierce their souls and wound their
delicate minds.
10 But, notwithstanding the greatness of the task, I must do according to the strict commands of God, and tell
you concerning your wickedness and abominations, in the presence of the pure in heart, and the broken heart,
and under the glance of the piercing eye of the Almighty God.
Jacob 2:31 For behold, I, the Lord, have seen the sorrow, and heard the mourning of the daughters of my
people in the land of Jerusalem, yea, and in all the lands of my people, because of the wickedness and
abominations of their husbands.
Jacob 2:33 For they shall not lead away captive the daughters of my people because of their tenderness, save I
shall visit them with a sore curse, even unto destruction; for they shall not commit whoredoms, like unto them
of old, saith the Lord of Hosts.
Jacob 2:35 Behold, ye have done greater iniquities than the Lamanites, our brethren. Ye have broken the
hearts of your tender wives, and lost the confidence of your children, because of your bad examples before
them; and the sobbings of their hearts ascend up to God against you. And because of the strictness of the word
of God, which cometh down against you, many hearts died, pierced with deep wounds.
Jacob 3:11 O my brethren, hearken unto my words; arouse the faculties of your souls; shake yourselves that ye
may awake from the slumber of death; and loose yourselves from the pains of hell that ye may not become
angels to the devil, to be cast into that lake of fire and brimstone which is the second death.
Mosiah 3:19 For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever
and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a
saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full
of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to
his father.
Mosiah 4:29-30 And finally, I cannot tell you all the things whereby ye may commit sin; for there are divers
ways and means, even so many that I cannot number them.
Addiction
30 But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your
deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the
coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish
not.
Mosiah 5:2 And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken
unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has
wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good
continually.
Alma 26:13-14 Behold, how many thousands of our brethren has he loosed from the pains of hell; and they are
brought to sing redeeming love, and this because of the power of his word which is in us, therefore have we not
great reason to rejoice?
14 Yea, we have reason to praise him forever, for he is the Most High God, and has loosed our brethren from
the chains of hell.
Alma 36:13
Yea, I did remember all my sins and iniquities, for which I was tormented with the pains of hell; yea, I saw that I
had rebelled against my God, and that I had not kept his holy commandments.
Alma 36:17-21 And it came to pass that as I was thus racked with torment, while I was harrowed up by the
memory of my many sins, behold, I remembered also to have heard my father prophesy unto the people
concerning the coming of one Jesus Christ, a Son of God, to atone for the sins of the world.
18 Now, as my mind caught hold upon this thought, I cried within my heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have
mercy on me, who am in the gall of bitterness, and am encircled about by the everlasting chains of death.
19 And now, behold, when I thought this, I could remember my pains no more; yea, I was harrowed up by the
memory of my sins no more.
20 And oh, what joy, and what marvelous light I did behold; yea, my soul was filled with joy as exceeding as was
my pain!
21 Yea, I say unto you, my son, that there could be nothing so exquisite and so bitter as were my pains. Yea, and
again I say unto you, my son, that on the other hand, there can be nothing so exquisite and sweet as was my joy.
Moroni 7:17-19
But whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do evil, and believe not in Christ, and deny him, and serve not God,
then ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of the devil; for after this manner doth the devil work, for he
persuadeth no man to do good, no, not one; neither do his angels; neither do they who subject themselves unto
him.
18 And now, my brethren, seeing that ye know the light by which ye may judge, which light is the light of Christ,
see that ye do not judge wrongfully; for with that same judgment which ye judge ye shall also be judged.
19 Wherefore, I beseech of you, brethren, that ye should search diligently in the light of Christ that ye may
know good from evil; and if ye will lay hold upon every good thing, and condemn it not, ye certainly will be a
child of Christ.
Doctrine and Covenants 43:11 Purge ye out the iniquity which is among you; sanctify yourselves before me;
Doctrine and Covenants 58:42-43 Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the
Lord, remember them no more.
43 By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins -- behold, he will confess them and forsake them.
Isaiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be
as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Matthew 23:26-28 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside
of them may be clean also.
Addiction - Agency
27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed
appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.
28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
Romans 8:6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Agency
We are bombarded with visual images of violence and immorality. Inappropriate music and pornography are
increasingly tolerated. The use of drugs and alcohol is rampant. There is less emphasis on honesty and character.
Individual rights are demanded, but duties, responsibilities, and obligations are neglected. There has been a
coarsening of dialogue and increased exposure to that which is base and vulgar. The adversary has been
relentless in his efforts to undermine the plan of happiness. If we separate ourselves from this worldly conduct,
we will have the Spirit in our lives and experience the joy of being worthy Latter-day Saints.
Quentin L. Cook, “Are You a Saint?” Ensign Nov. 2003
We all want to be on the right road. We all desire to move effectively down that highway of life with the least
amount of detours and delays. We all have moments when we get slightly confused and need additional help in
making correct choices. We are frequently at a crossroads where we must choose one of two highways: the
lower road leading to spiritual delays and sorrow, or the higher road leading to spiritual progress and happiness.
It is very important for us to always choose the higher road.
W. Craig Zwick, “Taking the Higher Road” Ensign Aug. 2002
You have your agency, and inspiration does not—perhaps cannot—flow unless you ask for it, or someone asks
for you. No message in scripture is repeated more often than the invitation, even the command, to pray—to ask.
Boyd K. Packer, Ensign Nov. 1994
The Lord has revealed His sacred standard to guide people in a troubled world. You and I were born free to
follow His divine guidance. We may choose for ourselves. Those choices may bring addiction or freedom. For
freedom and joy, choose to “be faithful in Christ.” He will lift you up. May “the hope of his glory and of eternal
life, rest in your mind forever” (Moro. 9:25)
Russell M. Nelson, “Addiction or Freedom” New Era Sept. 1989
If you question everything you are asked to do, or dig in your heels at every unpleasant challenge, you make it
harder for the Lord to bless you.
Your agency, the right to make choices, is not given so that you can get what you want. This divine gift is
provided so that you will choose what your Father in Heaven wants for you. That way He can lead you to
become all that He intends you to be. That path leads to glorious joy and happiness.
Richard G. Scott, “Finding Joy in Life” Ensign May 1996
Atonement
Atonement
I believe that none of us can conceive the full import of what Christ did for us in Gethsemane, but I am grateful
every day of my life for His atoning sacrifice in our behalf. At the last moment, He could have turned back. But
He did not. He passed beneath all things that He might save all things. In doing so, He gave us life beyond this
mortal existence. He reclaimed us from the Fall of Adam. To the depths of my very soul, I am grateful to Him. He
taught us how to live. He taught us how to die. He secured our salvation.
President Thomas S. Monson, “He Is Risen: A Prophet’s Testimony” Ensign April 2012
Sin is the willful transgression of divine law. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the gift of God to His children to
correct and overcome the consequences of sin.
The gift of the Atonement of Jesus Christ provides us at all times and at all places with the blessings of
repentance and forgiveness.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Point of Safe Return” Ensign May 2007
No words in Christendom mean more to me than those spoken by the angel to the weeping Mary Magdalene
and the other Mary when, on the first day of the week, they approached the tomb to care for the body of their
Lord. Spoke the angel: ‘Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen.’ *Luke 24:5–6] Our
Savior lived again. The most glorious, comforting, and reassuring of all events of human history had taken
place—the victory over death. The pain and agony of Gethsemane and Calvary had been wiped away. The
salvation of mankind had been secured.
Thomas S. Monson, Ensign, May 2010
…while no other success of ours can compensate for our failures within or outside our homes, there is a success
that can compensate when we cannot, after we conscientiously do all we can. That success is the atonement of
Jesus Christ, which can mend what for us is beyond repair.
Bruce C. Hafen, “Beauty for Ashes: The Atonement of Jesus Christ” Ensign 1990
Is it possible to reclaim a life that through reckless abandon has become so strewn with garbage that it appears
that the person is unforgivable? Or what about the one who is making an honest effort but has fallen back into
sin so many times that he feels that there is no possible way to break the seemingly endless pattern? Or what
about the person who has changed his life but just can’t forgive himself?
The Atonement of Jesus Christ is available to each of us. His Atonement is infinite. It applies to everyone, even
you. It can clean, reclaim, and sanctify even you. That is what infinite means—total, complete, all, forever.
President Boyd K. Packer has taught: “There is no habit, no addiction, no rebellion, no transgression, no
apostasy, no crime exempted from the promise of complete forgiveness. That is the promise of the atonement
of Christ” (“The Brilliant Morning of Forgiveness,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 20).
Shayne M. Bowen, “The Atonement Can Clean, Reclaim, and Sanctify our Lives” Ensign Nov. 2006
The great Atonement was the supreme act of forgiveness. The magnitude of that Atonement is beyond our
ability to completely understand. I know only that it happened, and that it was for me and for you. The suffering
was so great, the agony so intense, that none of us can comprehend it when the Savior offered Himself as a
ransom for the sins of all mankind. It is through Him that we gain forgiveness. It is through Him that there comes
the certain promise that all mankind will be granted the blessings of salvation, with resurrection from the dead.
It is through Him and His great overarching sacrifice that we are offered the opportunity through obedience of
Atonement
exaltation and eternal life.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Forgiveness” Ensign Nov. 2005
You need not know everything before the power of the Atonement will work for you. Have faith in Christ; it
begins to work the day you ask!
Boyd K. Packer, 167th Annual General Conference
The immortality and eternal life of man is brought to pass by the atonement of Jesus Christ, our Savior and
Redeemer. It is “the most transcendent act that ever has occurred or ever will occur among the children of the
Father.” It is an act of love for which we should be more grateful than for any other blessing or gift of God. The
Atonement provides immortality to every person; immortality is infinite and universal. It provides the
opportunity for eternal life, the kind of life that God lives, to those who have faith in Christ, repent of their sins,
and obey the laws of the gospel. In a miraculous way, the Atonement saves and redeems us from the effects of
the fall of Adam, both temporal death at the end of mortality and spiritual death, the separation from our
Father.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Our Lord and Savior” Ensign Nov. 1993
Some Church members feel weighed down with discouragement about the circumstances of their personal lives,
even when they are making sustained and admirable efforts. Frequently, these feelings of self-disappointment
come not from wrongdoing, but from stresses for which they may not be fully to blame. The atonement of Jesus
Christ applies to these experiences because it applies to all of life. The Savior can wipe away all of our tears,
“after all we can do”… The Savior’s atonement is thus portrayed as the healing power not only for sin, but also
for carelessness, inadequacy, and all mortal bitterness. The Atonement is not just for sinners.
Bruce C. Hafen, “Beauty for Ashes: The Atonement of Jesus Christ” Ensign April 1990
Salvation and all things incident thereto center in, revolve around, and are founded upon the atoning sacrifice of
Christ. The blessings of baptism and celestial marriage, the sanctifying power of the Spirit, redemption from
temporal and spiritual death, eternal life and exaltation – indeed, all spiritual blessings – are living realities
because of the atonement. Without that infinite and eternal sacrifice they would not exist, and the whole plan
of salvation would fade away into nothingness ad be of no value.
Bruce R. McConkie, “Man is Justified Through the Blood of Christ” Doctrinal New Testament Commentary,
Vol. 2
The Atonement is real. As you steadily do the things the Lord would have you do, a change will occur in you, and
Satan’s ability to lead you into the things that will destroy you and bring misery to you will become lessened.
Henry B. Eyring, “Surrender to Christ” Ricks College Devotional, Sept. 1993
The Savior wept and bled and died for you. He has given everything for your happiness and salvation. He
certainly is not going to withhold help from you now!
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Sanctify Yourselves” Ensign Nov. 2000
By understanding the Atonement, you will see that God is not a jealous being who delights in persecuting those
who misstep. He is an absolutely perfect, compassionate, understanding, patient, and forgiving Father. He is
willing to entreat, counsel, strengthen, lift, and fortify. He so loves each of us that He was willing to have His
perfect, sinless, absolutely obedient, totally righteous Son experience indescribable agony and pain and give
Himself in sacrifice for all. 6 Through that Atonement we can live in a world where absolute justice reigns in its
sphere so the world will have order. But that justice is tempered through mercy attainable by obedience to the
Atonement
teachings of Jesus Christ.
Richard G. Scott, “Finding Forgiveness” Ensign May 1995
The magnificent expression of His love came in His death when He gave His life as a sacrifice for all men. That
Atonement, wrought in unspeakable pain, became the greatest event of history, an act of grace for which men
gave nothing but which brought the assurance of the Resurrection to all who have or would walk the earth. No
other act in all of human history compares with it. Nothing that has ever happened can match it. Totally
unselfish and with unbounded love for all mankind, it became an unparalleled act of mercy for the whole human
race.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “At the Summit of the Ages” Ensign Nov. 1999
Restoring what you cannot restore, healing the wound you cannot heal, fixing that which you broke and you
cannot fix is the very purpose of the atonement of Christ. When your desire is firm and you are willing to pay the
“uttermost farthing,” 16 the law of restitution is suspended. Your obligation is transferred to the Lord. He will
settle your accounts. I repeat, save for the exception of the very few who defect to perdition, there is no habit,
no addiction, no rebellion, no transgression, no apostasy, no crime exempted from the promise of complete
forgiveness. That is the promise of the atonement of Christ.
Boyd K. Packer, “The Brilliant Morning of Forgiveness” Ensign Nov. 1995
The message, ministry, and Atonement of Jesus Christ, our Savior, are our essential family curriculum. No
scripture characterizes our faith better than 2 Nephi 25:26: “And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we
preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know
to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.”
Quentin L. Cook, “In Tune with the Music of Faith” Ensign May 2012
The doctrine is clear. We all depend on the Savior; none of us can be saved without Him. Christ’s Atonement is
infinite and eternal. Forgiveness for our sins comes with conditions. We must repent, and we must be willing to
forgive others. Jesus taught: “Forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not … *stands+ condemned before the
Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin” and “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Merciful Obtain Mercy” Ensign May 2012
It was not enough for him to know about our infirmities; he had to experience them personally in order that he
could reach us in every extremity. There is no place so remote, no condition so dark and despairing, no feeling
so helpless, no hurt so deep that the Savior has not already been there and borne those burdens for us. Only in
this way could he then succor us--which, as Elder Jeffrey R. Holland has pointed out, literally means "to run to"
("Come unto Me," Ensign, April 1998, p. 22). It is comforting to me to think that when I am in most desperate
need of help from the Savior, not only will he be there to help, but he will "run to me" to do so. What
compassion! What humility! What overwhelming love and support for every one of us!
L. Robert Webb, “Vast and Intimate: The Atonement in the Heavens and in the Heart” BYU Speeches of the
Year 1998
I believe that our conduct reflects our depth of understanding and appreciation for our Savior and his
atonement. As your scriptural theme for Book of Mormon week states: "If ye have experienced a change of
heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, . . . can ye feel so now?" (Alma 5:26). Our love for
the Lord should be our greatest motivation to live righteously. When we have a knowledge of and feeling for his
suffering, how can we consciously contribute to that suffering through choosing to commit sin?
J. Richard Clarke, “Choice – The Crucible of Character” BYU Speeches of the Year 1989
Atonement
Christ is not waiting for us to be perfect. Perfect people don’t need a Savior. He came to save his people in their
imperfections. He is the Lord of the living, and the living make mistakes. He’s not embarrassed by us, angry at
us, or shocked. He wants us in our brokenness, in our unhappiness, in our guilt and our grief.
Cheiko N. Okazaki as quoted by Brad Wilcox in The Continuous Atonement, 2009
Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has pointed out that the word succor in old French
means literally “to run to.” He suggested that “even as *Christ] calls us to come to him, he is unfailingly running
to help us.
Merrill J. Bateman, “Becoming a Disciple of Christ” Ensign April 2006
The Continuous Atonement by Brad Wilcox (July 2012)
p. 14
How many times can Christ watch us continue to sin without feeling like I am ridiculing His Atonement?
Christ’s answer: As often as my people repent will I forgive them their trespasses against me. (Mosiah
26:30)
p. 15
Even when we have not completely forsaken a sin, (D&C 58:42-43), each time we repent we are one
step closer to that goal.
p. 18
Little children don’t learn to walk in a day. There is a lot of hand holding, stepping, and falling. Falling
down may not be desirable but the lessons we learn from it are. We came to this world to learn how to
walk on our own.
p. 22
Making a mistake while reading the Sacrament prayer. Start over and repeat until we get it right. That is
what the Atonement is all about. Giving us a chance to begin again. How many times? 7 x 70
p. 47
Atonement comes from the Hebrew word, kaphar, which means to cover. Adam and Eve’s coat of skins
covered them. An animal had to be killed to make them. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are covered
emotionally and spiritually. We are “covered.”
p. 60
In Arabic, the meaning to atone is kafat, which means to embrace. We can be encircled about eternally
in the arms of His love (2 Nephi 1:15 and D&C 6:20).
p. 69
The Atonement does more than fix the mistakes. It does more than balance the scales. It even does
more than forgive our sins. It rehabilitates, regenerates, renews, and transforms human nature. Christ
makes us better.
p. 69
Difference between saving and redeeming: Moroni 10:32-33. Saving = come unto Christ … unto the
remission of your sins. Redeeming = “that ye may become holy.”
p. 70
Luke 17: 15-19. Ten lepers were healed. Only one was made whole (“Thy faith hath made thee whole.”).
p. 71
“Hey. I’m a good person even though I don’t go to church.”
“Your goodness isn’t in question. You already proved that in the preexistence. This life is about
becoming better.”
p. 72
Although one can meet the demands of justice by suffering for his sins, such suffering will not change
him. A prisoner can pay his debt to justice by doing time in prison and walk out unreformed. Suffering
alone does not guarantee change. Lasting change comes only through Christ. (Alma 34:34 and Moroni
9:14)
p. 74
Justification = clean hands. Sanctification = clean heart.
p. 75
Atonement - Attitude
We will be judged by our works but our works are not attempt to pay justice. That bill has already been
paid if we’ll accept it. Our works do not pay part or repay any part of it. Rather, they help us resemble
the bill payer.
p. 101-102
2 Nephi 25:23 “…after all we can do”
p. 108 Any effort is pleasing to God even if we both know it’s not all or my best. He is more concerned with the
offerer than the offering. God is pleased with every effort we make to better ourselves.
Mediocre is from Latin medicoris, which means halfway up the mountain. It doesn’t describe how far I
can go. It just indicated how far I’ve come. Being halfway up the mountain is better than being at the
bottom and refusing to try.
p. 155 Covenants acknowledge our dependence on God. With a covenant, the Lord promises to do for us what
we could never do for ourselves – forgive our sins, lift our burdens, renew our souls and re-create our
nature, raise us from the dead, and qualify us for glory hereafter. We promise to receive the ordinances
of salvation, love and serve one another, and do all in our power to put off the natural man and deny
ourselves of ungodliness.
p. 157 In the temple, as covenants are made, Jesus symbolically holds our hands tighter and tighter until we
are finally held so firmly it is almost impossible to break the grasp.
p. 161 Trying and slipping and trying again is not mocking God as much as it is honoring Him. Satan only h as
power if we give it to him. He can’t stop us from determining to start again.
When I slip, instead of saying, “I have failed,” I try to say. “I have not yet succeeded.” We don’t have to
reach our goals by Friday. We have until Sunday and then the next Sunday and the next – each time we
have the opportunity to partake of the Sacrament.
p. 192 Luke 7:47. To whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
Attitude
Some worry endlessly over missions that were missed, or marriages that did not turn out, or babies that did not
arrive, or children that seem lost, or dreams unfulfilled, or because age limits what they can do. I do not think it
pleases the Lord when we worry because we think we never do enough or that what we do is never good
enough. Some needlessly carry a heavy burden of guilt which could be removed through confession and
repentance.
Boyd K. Packer, “The Least of These” Ensign Nov. 2004
So much in life depends on our attitude. The way we choose to see things and respond to others makes all the
difference. To do the best we can and then to choose to be happy about our circumstances, whatever they may
be, can bring peace and contentment.
Thomas S. Monson, "Living the Abundance Life" Ensign Jan. 2012
A person’s attitude is perhaps the hardest of all personal attributes to change. If your attitude is right, then your
life is made right. If your heart is touched, your mind and way of thinking will change and your life will change
for the better accordingly. I believe we must become so immersed in the gospel of Jesus Christ that we become
physically as well as mentally more and more like the Lord himself. We must yield our whole hearts to him.
What we then do is done not because we are asked to, nor because we are forced to, but because we want to.
Neither pressure nor force can be exerted upon us from outside, when what we do is done because it is our own
choice and desire. It then makes no difference to us what other men may think, or say, or do. Our hearts being
Attitude
committed wholly to God, what we do is done out of our love for and our trust in him. We then serve God in
every way we can because we have been converted, our attitude has been changed and we now desire to
become like him both spiritually and physically.
Theodore M. Burton, “The Need for Total Commitment” Ensign Jan. 1974
We can lift ourselves and others as well when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and
cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then
gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues.
Thomas S. Monson, “The Divine Gift of Gratitude” Ensign Nov. 2010
Do not wait for leaders. Do it alone, person to person. –Mother Theresa
Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you act. –George W. Crane
A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for. –William Shedd
The most important key to achieving great success is to decide upon your goal and launch, get started, take
action, move. –John Wooden
Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it.
Competence – You can’t climb to the next rung on the ladder until you are excellent at what you do now.
Constraints – Eighty percent of all obstacles to success come from within. Find out what is constraining in you
and deal with it.
Courage – Most in demand and least in supply, courage is the willingness to do the things you know are right.
Make a game of finding something positive in every situation – 95 percent of your emotions are determined by
how you interpret events to yourself.
Optimists are right. So are pessimists. It’s up to you to choose which you will be.
The distance a person goes is not as important as the direction.
Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you
do it. –Lou Holtz
Any fact facing us is not as important as our attitude toward it, for that determines our success or failure. –
Norman Vincent Peale
Positive thinking will let you do everything better than negative thinking will. –Zig Ziglar
Don’t say, “If I could, I would.” Say, “If I can, I will.” –Jim Rohn
“I can’t do it” never yet accomplished anything. “I will try” has accomplished wonders.
Conviction, humility, repentance, and submissiveness precede the abandonment of our weapons of rebellion.
Do you and I still possess weapons of rebellion that keep us from becoming converted unto the Lord? If so, then
we need to repent now.
David A. Bednar, “Converted unto the Lord” Ensign Nov. 2012
Baptism
Baptism
Our challenge is to choose the right, to declare that we are friends of our Heavenly Father. The covenant that we
made through baptism is a contract to become a friend of God.
Charles Didier, "Friend or Foe," Ensign Nov. 1983
“Baptism … is an ordinance denoting entry into a sacred and binding covenant between God and man. Men
promise to forsake the world, love and serve their fellowmen, visit the fatherless and the widows in their
afflictions, proclaim peace, preach the gospel, serve the Lord, and keep His commandments. The Lord promises
to ‘pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon *us+’ (Mosiah 18:10), redeem His Saints both temporally and
spiritually, number them with those of the First Resurrection, and offer life eternal.”
L. Tom Perry, “The Gospel of Jesus Christ” Ensign May 2008
We Must Be Born of Water and of the Spirit
Ensign Feb. 2013
We believe we must be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (through an ordinance called
confirmation) to be saved in the kingdom of heaven. The Savior taught, “Except a man be born of water and of
the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5).
The Lord also taught that the ordinance of baptism—like all other gospel ordinances—must be performed by a
worthy priesthood holder: “The person who is called of God and has authority from Jesus Christ to baptize, shall
go down into the water with the person. … Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again
out of the water” (D&C 20:73–74).
Baptism by immersion symbolizes the burial of the sinner and the spiritual rebirth of the person to live in
“newness of life” (Romans 6:4). By baptism we leave behind our old life and start a new life as disciples of Jesus
Christ. When we are confirmed, we become members of His Church.
Baptism also includes a sacred covenant, a promise, between Heavenly Father and the individual who is
baptized. We covenant to keep His commandments, serve Him and His children, and take upon ourselves the
name of Jesus Christ. He promises to forgive our sins, “pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon *us+” (Mosiah
18:10), and offer us eternal life.
The Savior Himself kept the commandment to be baptized, even though He was sinless (see Matthew 3:13–17).
He was baptized to be obedient, to set the example for us, and to “fulfill all righteousness” (see 2 Nephi 31:5–9).
Thus, those who are baptized are following the Savior’s example.
Believe – Book of Mormon
Believe
No, it is not without a recognition of life’s tempests but fully and directly because of them that I testify of God’s
love and the Savior’s power to calm the storm. Always remember in that biblical story that He was out there on
the water also, that He faced the worst of it right along with the newest and youngest and most fearful. Only
one who has fought against those ominous waves is justified in telling us—as well as the sea—to “be still.” Only
one who has taken the full brunt of such adversity could ever be justified in telling us in such times to “be of
good cheer.” Such counsel is not a jaunty pep talk about the power of positive thinking, though positive thinking
is much needed in the world. No, Christ knows better than all others that the trials of life can be very deep and
we are not shallow people if we struggle with them. But even as the Lord avoids sugary rhetoric, He rebukes
faithlessness and He deplores pessimism. He expects us to believe!
Jeffrey R. Holland, “An High Priest of Good Things to Come” Ensign Nov. 1999
Book of Mormon
The power of Christ to counter all troubles in all times—including the end of times. That is the safe harbor God
wants for us in personal or public days of despair. That is the message with which the Book of Mormon begins,
and that is the message with which it ends, calling all to “come unto Christ, and be perfected in him.”
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Safety for the Soul” Ensign Nov. 2009
Brothers and sisters, without reservation I promise you that if you will prayerfully read the Book of Mormon,
regardless of how many times you previously have read it, there will come into your homes an added measure
of the Spirit of the Lord. There will come a strengthened resolution to walk in obedience to his commandments,
and there will come a stronger testimony of the living reality of the Son of God.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Book of Mormon” Ensign June 1988
In August 1830, as a lay preacher, Parley Parker Pratt was traveling from Ohio to eastern New York. At Newark,
he met a Baptist deacon by the name of Hamlin, who told him “of a book, a strange book, a VERY STRANGE
BOOK! … This book, he said, was supposed to have been originally written on plates either of gold or brass, by a
branch of the tribes of Israel; and to have been discovered and translated by a young man near Palmyra, in the
State of New York, by the aid of visions, or the ministry of angels. I asked him how or where the book was to be
obtained. He promised to let me see it, at his house the next day. … Next morning I called at his house, where,
for the first time, I saw the ‘BOOK OF MORMON’—that book of books … which was the principal means, in the
hands of God, of directing the entire course of my future life. “I opened it with eagerness, and read its title page.
I then read the testimony of several witnesses in relation to the manner of its being found and translated. … I
read all day; eating was a burden, I had no desire for food; sleep was a burden when the night came, for I
preferred reading to sleep. “As I read, the spirit of the Lord was upon me, and I knew and comprehended that
the book was true, as plainly and manifestly as a man comprehends and knows that he exists.” Parley Pratt was
then twenty-three years old. Reading the Book of Mormon affected him so profoundly that he was soon
baptized into the Church and became one of its most effective and powerful advocates.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Book of Mormon” Ensign June 1988
Book of Mormon
President Benson has plainly declared that “the Book of Mormon is the instrument that God designed to ‘sweep
the earth as with a flood, to gather out *His+ elect.’” (Ensign, Nov. 1988, p. 4.) We have no more sacred privilege,
and no more urgent and sacred responsibility, than to bear testimony that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the
living God! And we have no more effective “instrument” with which to accomplish this sacred task than the
record which God has prepared for that very purpose, even the Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus
Christ! In its pages, as in the other standard works of the Church, the true identity of the Lord Jesus Christ stands
forever revealed—past, present, and future!
John M. Madsen, “Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God” Ensign May 1993
The Book of Mormon is a proof that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true. Preach My Gospel
teaches that “the Book of Mormon, combined with the Spirit, is *the+ most powerful resource in conversion”
([2004], 104).
Marcos A. Aidukaitis, “Because My Father Read the Book of Mormon” Ensign Nov. 2008
Neither the Bible nor the Book of Mormon in and of themselves is sufficient. Both are necessary for us to teach
and learn about the full and complete doctrine of Christ. The need for the other does not diminish either one of
them. Both the Bible and the Book of Mormon are necessary for our salvation and exaltation. As President Ezra
Taft Benson so powerfully taught, “When used together, the Bible and the Book of Mormon confound false
doctrines” (“A New Witness for Christ,” Ensign, Nov. 1984, 8).
L. Tom Perry, “The Power of Deliverance” Ensign April 2012
A … powerful testimony to the importance of the Book of Mormon is to note where the Lord placed its coming
forth in the timetable of the unfolding Restoration. The only thing that preceded it was the First Vision. In that
marvelous manifestation, the Prophet Joseph Smith learned the true nature of God and that God had a work for
him to do. The coming forth of the Book of Mormon was the next thing to follow. Think of that in terms of what
it implies. The coming forth of the Book of Mormon preceded the restoration of the priesthood. It was published
just a few days before the Church was organized. The Saints were given the Book of Mormon to read before
they were given the revelations outlining such great doctrines as the three degrees of glory, celestial marriage,
or work for the dead. It came before priesthood quorums and Church organization. Doesn’t this tell us
something about how the Lord views this sacred work?
Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon—Keystone of our Religion” Ensign Nov. 1986
I have a vision of the whole Church getting nearer to God by abiding by the precepts of the Book of Mormon.
Indeed, I have a vision of flooding the earth with the Book of Mormon.
My beloved Saints, I am now entering my ninetieth year. I am getting older and less vigorous and am so grateful
for your prayers and for the support of my younger Brethren. I thank the Lord for renewing my body from time
to time so that I can still help build His kingdom.
I do not know fully why God has preserved my life to this age, but I do know this: That for the present hour He
has revealed to me the absolute need for us to move the Book of Mormon forward now in a marvelous manner.
You must help with this burden and with this blessing which He has placed on the whole Church, even all the
children of Zion.
Moses never entered the promised land. Joseph Smith never saw Zion redeemed. Some of us may not live long
enough to see the day when the Book of Mormon floods the earth and when the Lord lifts His condemnation.
(See D&C 84:54–58.) But, God willing, I intend to spend all my remaining days in that glorious effort.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Flooding the Earth with the Book of Mormon” Ensign Nov. 1988
Book of Mormon
One time I became so interested in the speed of the work that was accomplished by Oliver Cowdery and Joseph
Smith that I asked someone to research some of the other translations of scriptures for me to see how purely
remarkable this work was. I found out that in translating the books of Moses from Hebrew to Greek, six men
were called from each of the 12 tribes to perform the labor. Their project required 72 days, or 5,184 man days.
Jerome was commissioned by the pope to translate the Bible from Hebrew to Latin; he worked on the project
for 23 years, or 8,395 days. In the commission given by King James to translate the English version of the Bible
from several other translations to what the king hoped would be the perfect English version, he selected 54 men
who worked on the project for 4 years, or 78,840 man days.
Now contrast that to the translation of the Book of Mormon, which for all intents and purposes started on 7
April 1829 and was completed by 30 June 1829—two men working 85 days, or 170 man days. It was truly a
miracle. It could only have been done under the direction of the Lord.
This great book is one tangible evidence that we have of the call of the Prophet Joseph Smith to bring about the
long-awaited restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ and again establish the Lord’s Church on earth. According
to prophecy, this time its establishment was to endure (see Isa. 2:2–3; Dan. 2:44). This being true, the Lord
would carefully prepare his Church leadership to give continuity to the work.
L. Tom Perry, “By the Hands of His Prophets” Ensign Aug. 1998
I counsel you, my beloved brothers and sisters and friends everywhere, to make reading the Book of Mormon a
few minutes each day a lifelong practice. All of us need the uninterrupted association with the Spirit of the Lord.
We need to take the Holy Spirit for our constant guide that we be not deceived. I am persuaded by my own
experience and that of my loved ones, as well as by the statements of the Prophet Joseph Smith, that one can
get and keep closer to the Lord by reading the Book of Mormon than by reading any other book. Don’t be
content with what someone else tells you about what is in it. Drink deeply from the divine fountain itself.
I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book of Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by
themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who
dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow.
The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will
be more responsive and submissive to the counsel of their parents. Righteousness will increase. Faith, hope, and
charity—the pure love of Christ—will abound in our homes and lives, bringing in their wake peace, joy, and
happiness.
Marion G. Romney, “The Book of Mormon” Ensign May 1980
Do you want to get rid of a bad habit? Do you want to improve relationships in your family? Do you want to
increase your spiritual capacity? Read the Book of Mormon!
Russell M. Nelson, Ensign Nov. 1999
Christianity - Death
Christianity
People need to know something of our faith as committed Christians with strong traditional values. Along with
the Articles of Faith we need to emphasize that:

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We believe in the eternity of the soul, that God is the Father of our spirits, and that we can return to
Him after death.
We believe that Jesus Christ is our personal Savior, and we try to model our lives after Him and His
teachings. We commemorate Christ’s atoning sacrifice in our Sunday worship services, similar to taking
communion in other churches. We accept as fellow Christians all who believe Jesus Christ to be the Son
of God and the Savior of all mankind. Many Christians do not understand that we have much common
ground with them. Joseph Smith taught that Jesus Christ is the core of our belief, and everything else is
an appendage to it (see Elders’ Journal, July 1838, 44). The name of the Church is The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints.
We believe the original church that Jesus established was lost and has been restored again in our day.
The priesthood, the authority given to man to act in the name of God, with apostles and a prophet to
lead us, has been restored as have all necessary ordinances of salvation.
We believe in and we use the Holy Bible, both the Old and New Testaments.
And we believe in the Book of Mormon and other books of scripture which support and authenticate the
Bible and testify of the ministry and divinity of Christ and of God’s ongoing revelation to man. Indeed,
the Book of Mormon is “Another Testament of Jesus Christ.”
M. Russell Ballard, “Faith, Family, Facts, and Fruits” Ensign Nov. 2007
Death
Death lays its heavy hand upon those dear to us and at times leaves us baffled and wondering. In certain
situations, as in great suffering and illness, death comes as an angel of mercy. But for the most part, we think of
it as the ENEMY of human happiness. The darkness of death can ever be dispelled by the light of revealed truth.
‘I am the resurrection, and the life,’ spoke the Master. ‘He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall
he live: And whosever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.’ *John 11:25-26]
Thomas S. Monson, “He that Believeth in Me” Ensign Jan. 2002
Life is sacred, and death is somber. Life is buoyant and hopeful. Death is solemn and dark. It is awesome in its
silence and certainty…. But death is not final. Though it seems so when its dark shroud overshadows mortal life,
to those who accept the Christ and His eternal mission there is light and comfort, there is assurance, there is
certainty.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “LDS Conference Report” April 1988,
Why do some children die and others live? Are those who die better off than those who remain in mortality?
We may rest assured that all things are controlled and governed by Him whose spirit children we are. He knows
the end from the beginning, and he provides for each of us the testings and trials which he knows we need.
President Joseph Fielding Smith once told me that we must assume that the Lord knows and arranges
beforehand who shall be taken in infancy and who shall remain on earth to undergo whatever tests are needed
in their cases. This accords with Joseph Smith’s statement: “The Lord takes many away, even in infancy, that
Death
they may escape the envy of man, and the sorrows and evils of this present world; they were too pure, too
lovely, to live on earth.” (Teachings, p. 196–97) It is implicit in the whole scheme of things that those of us who
have arrived at the years of accountability need the tests and trials to which we are subject and that our
problem is to overcome the world and attain that spotless and pure state which little children already possess.
Bruce R. McConkie, “The Salvation of Little Children” Ensign April 1977
In my leisure moments I have meditated upon the subject, and asked the question, why it is that infants,
innocent children, are taken away from us, especially those Jesus hugging child that seem to be the most
intelligent and interesting. . . . The Lord takes many away even in infancy, that they may escape the envy of man,
and the sorrows and evils of this present world; they were too pure, too lovely, to live on earth; therefore, if
rightly considered, instead of mourning we have reason to rejoice as they are delivered from evil, and we shall
soon have them again. . . . All children are redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, and the moment that children
leave this world, they are taken to the bosom of Abraham. The only difference between the old and young dying
is, one lives longer in heaven and eternal light and glory than the other, and is freed a little sooner from this
miserable wicked world.
Joseph Smith, Teachings, p. 196-197
There is something tangible about the views of the Latter-day Saints concerning the future. We do not expect to
sit upon a cloud, playing a harp throughout the endless ages of eternity. There will be work for us to do work of
the most glorious and exalted character. Oh! What joy will fill the hearts of those who are faithful when they
meet the Lord, and He welcomes them back to His presence, having been true and unswerving in their integrity
while they were in the flesh.
You welcome your sons home from missions; gladness inexpressible fills your hearts if they have been faithful to
the cause of God and have magnified their Priesthood. By this you can have a faint idea of the joy that our
Father in heaven will have over us if we are true to Him and go from here pure. And think of our joy! Though we
have been separated from our Father, though there has been a veil between Him and us in order that we might
be tested and proved, now the mission is ended, the probation has been performed and we go back
emancipated from the power of Satan.
George Q. Cannon, “Eternal Life” 1898
It is hard for the mother of the deceased boy before us, to part with her son. It wrings from her heart bitter
anguish, to see him committed to an untimely grave; but we ought not to allow any great sorrow, to wear upon
our mortal tabernacles so as to waste them away, and cut us off from performing that good, which we
otherwise might live to perform. Though we cannot altogether avoid grief under sore trials, yet we can
overcome excessive sorrow, through faith in the Lord Jesus, and by calling upon the Father in his name—and
that is all we can do.
Brigham Young, “Death” Journal of Discourses
The only difference between the old and young dying is, one lives longer in heaven and eternal light and glory
than the other, and it freed a little sooner from this miserable, wicked world.
Joseph Smith, History of the Church
Education - Faith
Education
It is so important that you young men and you young women get all of the education that you can. The Lord has
said very plainly that His people are to gain knowledge of countries and kingdoms and of things of the world
through the process of education, even by study and by faith. Education is the key which will unlock the door of
opportunity for you. It is worth sacrificing for. It is worth working at, and if you educate your mind and your
hands, you will be able to make a great contribution to the society of which you are a part, and you will be able
to reflect honorably on the Church of which you are a member. My dear young brothers and sisters, take
advantage of every educational opportunity that you can possibly afford, and you fathers and mothers,
encourage your sons and daughters to gain an education which will bless their lives.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Inspirational Thoughts” Ensign June 1999
Endure
Some may say if we have enough faith, we can sometimes change the circumstances that are causing our trials
and tribulations. Is our faith to change circumstances, or is it to endure them? Faithful prayers may be offered to
change or moderate events in our life, but we must always remember that when concluding each prayer, there
is an understanding: ‘Thy will be done’ (Matt. 26:42). Faith in the Lord includes trust in the Lord. The faith to
endure well is faith based upon accepting the Lord’s will and the lessons learned in the events that transpire.
Robert D. Hales, “Behold, We Count Them Happy Which Endure” Ensign May 1998
Example
Every time we navigate safely on this great and narrow way there are other ships that are nearly lost or which
are lost which can find their way because of our light.
Neil A Maxwell, BYU Fireside Address
Faith
No, it is not without a recognition of life’s tempests but fully and directly because of them that I testify of God’s
love and the Savior’s power to calm the storm. Always remember in that biblical story that He was out there on
the water also, that He faced the worst of it right along with the newest and youngest and most fearful. Only
one who has fought against those ominous waves is justified in telling us—as well as the sea—to “be still.” Only
one who has taken the full brunt of such adversity could ever be justified in telling us in such times to “be of
good cheer.” Such counsel is not a jaunty pep talk about the power of positive thinking, though positive thinking
is much needed in the world. No, Christ knows better than all others that the trials of life can be very deep and
we are not shallow people if we struggle with them. But even as the Lord avoids sugary rhetoric, He rebukes
faithlessness and He deplores pessimism. He expects us to believe!
Jeffrey R. Holland, “An High Priest of Good Things to Come” Ensign 1999
Oh, if I could teach you this one principle: a testimony is to be found in the bearing of it! Somewhere in your
quest for spiritual knowledge, there is that “leap of faith,” as the philosophers call it. It is the moment when you
Faith
have gone to the edge of the light and stepped into the darkness to discover that the way is lighted ahead for
just a footstep or two.
Boyd K. Packer, “The Quest for Spiritual Knowledge” Ensign Jan. 2007
Challenges, difficulties, questions, doubts-these are part of our mortality. But we are not alone. As disciples of
the Lord Jesus Christ, we have enormous spiritual reservoirs of light and truth available to us. Fear and faith
cannot coexist in our hearts at the same time. In our days of difficulty, we choose the road of faith. Jesus said,
"Be not afraid, only believe.”
Neil L. Andersen, "You Know Enough," Ensign October 2008
With faith and obedience practiced long enough, the Holy Ghost becomes a constant companion, our natures
change, and endurance becomes certain.
Henry B. Eyring, “True Friends” Ensign May 2002
There was an incident in the life of the Savior that was mentioned by Matthew, Mark, and Luke. A significant
part of the story is told by Mark in only two short verses and five words of the following verse. Let me read them
to you.
“And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him [that is,
when he saw Jesus], he fell at his feet,
“And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy
hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.
“And Jesus went with him” (Mark 5:22–24).
Then comes a great acknowledgement of faith: “I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be
healed; and she shall live.” These are not only the words of faith of a father torn with grief but are also a
reminder to us that whatever Jesus lays his hands upon lives. If Jesus lays his hands upon a marriage, it lives. If
he is allowed to lay his hands on the family, it lives.
Howard W. Hunter, “Reading the Scriptures” Ensign Nov. 1979
Basically, we limit our vision to the events that happen in this life with the greatest emphasis placed on the
present. Only when we fix our gaze on the heavenly things do we begin to understand the eternities. Only with
the help of Christ can we fully overcome tragedy. It is necessary to develop our faith in Him as the Redeemer of
the world. He taught us: “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the
world.” (John 16:33.)
Carlos H. Amado, “Overcoming Adversity” Ensign Nov. 1989
The Lord said: “Wherefore, lift up thy heart and rejoice, and cleave unto the covenants which thou hast made.”
(D&C 25:13.)
I believe he is saying to each of us, be happy. The gospel is a thing of joy. It provides us with a reason for
gladness. Of course there are times of sorrow. Of course there are hours of concern and anxiety. We all worry.
But the Lord has told us to lift our hearts and rejoice. I see so many people, including many women, who seem
never to see the sunshine, but who constantly walk with storms under cloudy skies. Cultivate an attitude of
happiness. Cultivate a spirit of optimism. Walk with faith, rejoicing in the beauties of nature, in the goodness of
those you love, in the testimony which you carry in your heart concerning things divine.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “If Thou Art Faithful” Ensign Nov. 1984
I testify that as you love Him, trust Him, believe Him, and follow Him, you will feel His love and approval. As you
ask, ‘What thinks Christ of me?’ you will know that you are His disciple; you are His friend. By His grace He will
Faith
do for you what you cannot do for yourself.
Neil L. Andersen, “What Thinks Christ of Me?” Ensign May 2012
The future is as bright as your faith.
Thomas S. Monson, “Be of Good Cheer” Ensign May 2009
Who among us can say that he or she has not felt fear? I know of no one who has been entirely spared. Some, of
course, experience fear to a greater degree than do others. Some are able to rise above it quickly, but others are
trapped and pulled down by it and even driven to defeat. We suffer from the fear of ridicule, the fear of failure,
the fear of loneliness, the fear of ignorance. Some fear the present, some the future. Some carry the burden of
sin and would give almost anything to unshackle themselves from those burdens but fear to change their lives.
Let us recognize that fear comes not of God, but rather that this gnawing, destructive element comes from the
adversary of truth and righteousness. Fear is the antithesis of faith. It is corrosive in its effects, even deadly.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley”
At times we thoughtfully wonder why the miracle we have so earnestly prayed for does not happen here and
now. But as we trust in the Savior, promised miracles will occur. Whether in this life or the next, all will be made
right. The Savior declares: “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” “In the world ye shall have
tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
Neil L. Andersen, “What Thinks Christ of Me?” Ensign May 2012
Faith comes by hearing the word of God. If a man has not faith enough to do one thing, he may have faith to do
another: if he cannot remove a mountain, he may heal the sick. Where faith is there will be some of the fruits:
all gifts and power which were sent from heaven, were poured out on the heads of those who had faith.
Joseph Smith, “Faith” 1843
Paul gave good counsel for all of us. Don’t worry about how inexperienced you are or think you are, but think
about what, with the Lord’s help, you can become.
Henry B. Eyring, “Preparation in the Priesthood: I Need Your Help” Ensign Oct. 2011
Why worry about future calamities or uncertainties over which you have no control? Your righteous character
magnifies the probability that you will never have to suffer them. When challenges and testing do come, your
faith will lead you to solutions.
Richard G. Scott, Liahona May 2003
The Lord has blessed you with a testimony of the truth. You have felt His influence and witnessed His power.
And if you continue to seek Him, He will continue to grant you sacred experiences. With these and other
spiritual gifts, you will be able not only to change your own life for the better but also to bless your homes,
wards or branches, communities, cities, states, and nations with your goodness.
It may be hard to see that at times, but hold on a little longer, for “eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither
have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” and wait for
Him (1 Corinthians 2:9; see also D&C 76:10; 133:45).
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Hold on a Little Longer” Ensign Jan. 2010
I testify of angels, both the heavenly and the mortal kind. In doing so I am testifying that God never leaves us
alone, never leaves us unaided in the challenges that we face. “*N+or will he, so long as time shall last, or the
earth shall stand, or there shall be one man *or woman or child+ upon the face thereof to be saved.” On
occasions, global or personal, we may feel we are distanced from God, shut out from heaven, lost, alone in dark
Faith
and dreary places. Often enough that distress can be of our own making, but even then the Father of us all is
watching and assisting. And always there are those angels who come and go all around us, seen and unseen,
known and unknown, mortal and immortal.
May we all believe more readily in, and have more gratitude for, the Lord’s promise as contained in one of
President Monson’s favorite scriptures: “I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left,
… my Spirit shall be in your *heart+, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.” In the process of praying
for those angels to attend us, may we all try to be a little more angelic ourselves—with a kind word, a strong
arm, a declaration of faith and “the covenant wherewith *we+ have covenanted.” Perhaps then we can be
emissaries sent from God.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Ministry of Angels” Ensign Nov. 2008
Our Heavenly Father is a powerful, moving, directing being. While we may, at times, bear burdens of sorrow,
pain, and grief; while we may struggle to understand trials of faith we are called to pass through; while life may
seem dark and dreary—through faith, we have absolute confidence that a loving Heavenly Father is at our side.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Shall He Find Faith on the Earth?” Ensign Nov. 2002
I would also ask that we choose to build up within ourselves a great power of faith which will be our most
effective bulwark against the designs of the Adversary- a real faith, the kind of faith which will sustain us. Every
person within the sound of my voice has read or quoted or heard those famous words from the epistle of James:
‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him as of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be
given him’ (James 1:5). Haven’t we all heard that? How many of us have read the next verse: ‘But let him ask in
faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed’ (James
1:6). So I would urge that we choose to build within ourselves a faith which can be characterized by nothing
wavering. If we will do this our Heavenly Father will sustain us, and direct us, and guide us.
Thomas S. Monson, BYU Speech, 1963
Life isn’t always easy. At some point in our journey we may feel much as the pioneers did as they crossed Iowa—
up to our knees in mud, forced to bury some of our dreams along the way. We all face rocky ridges, with the
wind in our face and winter coming on too soon. Sometimes it seems as though there is no end to the dust that
stings our eyes and clouds our vision. Sharp edges of despair and discouragement jut out of the terrain to slow
our passage. Always, there is a Devil’s Gate, which will swing wide open to lure us in. Those who are wise and
faithful will steer a course as far from such temptation as possible, while others—sometimes those who are
nearest and dearest to us—succumb to the attraction of ease, comfort, convenience, and rest. Occasionally we
reach the top of one summit in life, as the pioneers did, only to see more mountain peaks ahead, higher and
more challenging than the one we have just traversed. Tapping unseen reservoirs of faith and endurance, we, as
did our forebears, inch ever forward toward that day when our voices can join with those of all pioneers who
have endured in faith, singing: “All is well! All is well!” (Hymns, no. 30).
M. Russell Ballard, “You Have Nothing to Fear from the Journey” Ensign May 1997
His servant was very ill and paralyzed. He wasn’t sure if there was any hope for this man who was under his care.
He heard that Jesus was in the area and wondered if he would help his servant? So, the centurion officer went
out in search of Jesus. When he found Him, he explained the situation telling Jesus that his servant was at home
in bed, paralyzed and suffering greatly.
Jesus’ hear went out to the man and He told the centurion He would go and heal his servant. The centurion;
however, humbly stopped Jesus telling Him that He need not come to his house. He said, “I do not deserve to
have you come under my roof.” Just say the word and my servant will be healed. I myself am a man under
authority, with soldiers under me. I tell one, “go” and he goes; and that one “Come” and he comes. I say to my
Faith
servant “Do this” and he does this. Jesus astonishingly announced for all to hear, “I tell you the truth, I have not
found anyone in Israel with such a great faith, and with a word He healed the servant.”
Some may say if we have enough faith, we can sometimes change the circumstances that are causing our trials
and tribulations. Is our faith to change circumstances, or is it to endure them? Faithful prayers may be offered to
change or moderate events in our life, but we must always remember that when concluding each prayer, there
is an understanding: ‘Thy will be done’ (Matt. 26:42). Faith in the Lord includes trust in the Lord. The faith to
endure well is faith based upon accepting the Lord’s will and the lessons learned in the events that transpire.
Robert D. Hales, “Behold, We Count Them Happy Which Endure” Ensign May 1998
Faith precedes the miracle. It has ever been so and shall ever be. It was not raining when Noah was commanded
to build an ark. There was no visible ram in the thicket when Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac. Two
heavenly personages were not yet seen when Joseph knelt and prayed. First came the test of faith—and then
the miracle. Remember that faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for one will dispel
the other. Cast out doubt. Cultivate faith.
Thomas S. Monson, “The Call to Serve” Ensign Nov. 2000
Let me say to you, that many of you will see the time when you will have all the trouble, trial and persecution
that you can stand, and plenty of opportunities to show that you are true to God and His work. This Church has
before it many close places through which it will have to pass before the work of God is crowned with victory.
To meet the difficulties that are coming, it will be necessary or you to have a knowledge of the truth of this work
for yourselves. The difficulties will be of such a character that the man or woman who does not possess this
personal knowledge or witness will fall. If you have not got the testimony, live right and call upon the Lord and
cease not till you obtain it. If you do not you will not stand.
Remember these sayings, for many of you will live to see them fulfilled. The time will come when no man nor
woman will be able to endure on borrowed light. Each will have to be guided by the light within himself. If you
do not have it, how can you stand?
Heber C. Kimball “Life of Heber C. Kimball”
When a man works by faith he works by mental exertion instead of by physical force.
Joseph Smith, “The LDS Speaker’s Sourcebook”
Faith is a gift of God bestowed as a reward for personal righteousness. It is always given when righteousness is
present, and the greater the measure of obedience to God’s laws the greater will be the endowment of faith.
Bruce R. McConkie, “Mormon Doctrine”
We’re not going to survive in this world, temporally or spiritually, without increased faith in the Lord – and I
don’t mean a positive mental attitude – I mean downright solid faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. That is the one
thing that gives vitality and power to otherwise rather weak individuals.
A. Theodore Tuttle, Ensign Nov. 1986
What a tragedy it is in our lives when we are afraid to try, afraid to make decisions, afraid to trust the
Lord…fear…can be conquered if we will but have faith and move forward with purpose.
Marvin J. Ashton, Ensign May 1979
Each of you needs to build a reservoir of faith so you can draw upon it when someone you love or respect
betrays you, when some scientific discovery seems to cast doubt on a gospel principle, or when someone makes
light of sacred things, such as the name of God or the sacred ceremonies of the temple. You need to draw on
your reservoir of faith when you are weak or when someone else calls on you to strengthen them. You also need
Faith
to draw on your reservoir of faith when some requirement of Church membership or service interferes with
your personal preferences.
You need the strength that comes from faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ if you are to fulfill your duty “to
stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places” (Mosiah 18:9). In times of trial you need
the comfort offered in the holy scriptures, which assure you that when you have the shield of faith you will “be
able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked” (D&C 27:17).
Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ prepares you for whatever life brings. This kind of faith prepares you to deal with
life’s opportunities—to take advantage of those that are received and to persist through the disappointments of
those that are lost.
Most importantly, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ opens the door of salvation and exaltation: “For no *one+ can be
saved, according to the words of Christ, save they shall have faith in his name” (Moro. 7:38).
Dallin H. Oaks, “Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ” Ensign May 1994
Experience has taught me that if we, like President Monson, exercise our faith and look to God for help, we will
not be overwhelmed with the burdens of life. We will not feel incapable of doing what we are called to do or
need to do. We will be strengthened, and our lives will be filled with peace and joy. We will come to realize that
most of what we worry about is not of eternal significance—and if it is, the Lord will help us. But we must have
the faith to look up and the courage to follow His direction.
Carl B. Cook, “It Is Better to Look Up” Ensign Nov. 2011
Faith exists when absolute confidence in that which we cannot see combines with action that is in absolute
conformity to the will of our Heavenly Father. Without all three—first, absolute confidence; second, action; and
third, absolute conformity—without these three all we have is a counterfeit, a weak and watered-down faith.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Shall He Find Faith on the Earth?” Ensign Nov. 2002
The greatest thing we can do for the safety of our nation and to strengthen it is to cultivate within the
membership of this Church stronger, ever stronger faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, that our people might walk in
righteousness and become an example to all and be as the leaven to leaven the lump, as it were. Let us walk in
faith and faithfulness.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Priesthood Leadership Meeting, May 1995
Certitude is certainty. It is conviction. It is the power of faith that approaches knowledge—yes, that even
becomes knowledge. It evokes enthusiasm, and there is no asset comparable to enthusiasm in overcoming
opposition, prejudice, and indifference.
Great buildings were never constructed on uncertain foundations. Great causes were never brought to success
by vacillating leaders. The gospel was never expounded to the convincing of others without certainty. Faith,
which is of the very essence of personal conviction, has always been, and always must be, at the root of religious
practice and endeavor.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Faith: The Essence of True Religion” Ensign Nov. 1981
We need more faith. More faith in ourselves that we can do what’s expected of us. We may feel terribly
inadequate. When the Lord called Moses, Moses said, ‘Don’t call me. I’m a man of slow speech; I can’t do it. Get
someone else.’ And what did the Lord say? ‘Who hath made man’s mouth? Now therefore go and do that which
I have asked of thee.’ (See Ex. 4:10-12)
The important thing, the wonderful thing that I see in this Church everywhere I go all over the world, is men and
women who are very ordinary, really, by the standards of the world, who are doing marvelous, and wonderful
things as leaders in this Church. Not of their own strength and capacity, but because the Spirit of the Lord comes
Faith - Family
into their lives and the Holy Ghost teaches through them. And the Holy Ghost can teach us things that we
cannot teach one another. Never forget that.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Priesthood Leadership Meeting, Aug. 1995
Faith is like the muscle of my arm. If I use it, if I nurture it, it will grow strong. If I put it in a sling and leave it
there, it will grow weak.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Priesthood Leadership Meeting, March 1998
Why do we need such resilient faith? Because difficult days are ahead. Rarely in the future will it be easy or
popular to be a faithful Latter-day Saint. Each of us will be tested. The Apostle Paul warned that in the latter
days, those who diligently follow the Lord “shall suffer persecution.” That very persecution can either crush you
into silent weakness or motivate you to be more exemplary and courageous in your daily lives.
Russell M. Nelson, “Face the Future with Faith” Ensign May 2011
Family
The Family
A Proclamation to the World
The First Presidency and Council of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is
central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.
All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter
of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of
individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.
In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshipped God as their Eternal Father and
accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress
toward perfection and ultimately realize their divine destiny as heirs of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness
enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in
holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united
eternally.
The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband
and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in
force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed
only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.
We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and
of its importance in God’s eternal plan.
Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. “Children
are an heritage of the Lord” (Psalm 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and
Family - Fasting
righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one
another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and
wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.
The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are
entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital
vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the
teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on
principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome
recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and
are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily
responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated
to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual
adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.
We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill
family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of
the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern
prophets.
We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed
to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.
What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.
Mother Teresa
Fasting
In a sincere fast, we are given an open invitation by the Lord to draw close to Him, to open our hearts to Him, to
feel His Spirit and pure love. It’s a time to recommit to obeying his commandments.
Russell C. Taylor, Ensign May 1989
I am a firm believer that you cannot give to the Church and to the building up of the Kingdom of God and be any
poorer financially. I remember a long time ago, over 50 years, when Brother [Melvin J.] Ballard laid his hands on
my head and set me apart to go on a mission. He said in that prayer of blessing that a person could not give a
crust to the Lord without receiving a loaf in return. That’s been my experience. If the members of the Church
would double their fast-offering contributions, the spirituality in the Church would double. We need to keep
that in mind and be liberal in our contributions.
Thomas S. Monson, Welfare Agriculture Meeting, April 1971
We observe that in the scriptures, fasting almost always is linked with prayer. Without prayer, fasting is not
complete fasting; it’s simply going hungry. If we want our fasting to be more than just going without eating, we
must lift our hearts, our minds, and our voices in communion with our Heavenly Father. Fasting, coupled with
mighty prayer, is powerful. It can fill our minds with the revelations of the Spirit. It can strengthen us against
times of temptation.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Law of the Fast” Ensign May 2001
Fasting
To discipline ourselves through fasting brings us in tune with God, and fast day provides an occasion to set aside
the temporal so that we might enjoy the higher qualities of the spiritual. As we fast on that day we learn and
better understand the needs of those who are less fortunate.
Howard W. Hunter, “Fast Day” Ensign Nov. 1985
Fasting Strengthens Us Spiritually and Temporally
Fasting has been part of the gospel of Jesus Christ since Old Testament times (see, for example, Daniel 9:3; Joel
2:12). Fasting strengthens people spiritually and increases the effectiveness of their prayers (see Isaiah 58:6–11).
Today members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints fast and give the money they would have
spent on food to the Church to help the poor and needy.
“The Church designates one Sunday each month, usually the first Sunday, as a day of fasting. Proper observance
of fast Sunday includes going without food and drink for two consecutive meals [in a 24-hour period], attending
fast and testimony meeting, and giving a fast offering to help care for those in need.
“Your fast offering should be at least the value of the two meals you do not eat. When possible, be generous
and give much more than this amount.
“In addition to observing the fast days set aside by Church leaders, you can fast on any other day, according to
your needs and the needs of others. However, you should not fast too frequently or for excessive periods of
time.” Those with a medical condition that would be worsened by fasting should exercise wisdom and modify
their approach.
Members of the Church fast for various purposes. We can fast and pray for a family member who is sick, for
example. We can fast to express gratitude to God, to develop greater humility, to overcome a weakness or sin,
to receive inspiration for our Church responsibilities, and so on. Fasting helps us feel compassion for those who
regularly experience hunger. Fasting also helps our spirit triumph over the body.
Ensign, June 2012
Throughout history, the Lord has measured societies and individuals by how well they cared for the poor. He has
said:
“For the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare; yea, I prepared all things, and have given unto the
children of men to be agents unto themselves.
“Therefore, if any man shall take of the abundance which I have made, and impart not his portion, according to
the law of my gospel, unto the poor and the needy, he shall, with the wicked, lift up his eyes in hell, being in
torment” (D&C 104:17–18; see also D&C 56:16–17).
Furthermore, He declares, “In your temporal things you shall be equal, and this not grudgingly, otherwise the
abundance of the manifestations of the Spirit shall be withheld” (D&C 70:14; see also D&C 49:20; 78:5–7).
We control the disposition of our means and resources, but we account to God for this stewardship over earthly
things. It is gratifying to witness your generosity as you contribute to fast offerings and humanitarian projects.
Over the years, the suffering of millions has been alleviated, and countless others have been enabled to help
themselves through the generosity of the Saints. Nevertheless, as we pursue the cause of Zion, each of us should
prayerfully consider whether we are doing what we should and all that we should in the Lord’s eyes with respect
to the poor and the needy.
Fathers
We might ask ourselves, living as many of us do in societies that worship possessions and pleasures, whether we
are remaining aloof from covetousness and the lust to acquire more and more of this world’s goods. Materialism
is just one more manifestation of the idolatry and pride that characterize Babylon. Perhaps we can learn to be
content with what is sufficient for our needs.
D. Todd Christofferson, “Come to Zion” Ensign Nov. 2008
Fathers
Your leadership of the family is your most important and sacred responsibility. The family is the most important
unit in time and in eternity and, as such, transcends every other interest in life. Effective family leadership,
brethren, requires both quantity and quality time. The teaching and governance of the family must not be left to
your wife alone, to society, to school, or even the Church.
A man who holds the priesthood accepts his wife as a partner in the leadership of the home and family with full
knowledge of and full participation in all decisions relating thereto. Of necessity there must be in the Church and
in the home a presiding officer (see D&C 107:21). By divine appointment, the responsibility to preside in the
home rests upon the priesthood holder (see Moses 4:22). The Lord intended that the wife be a helpmeet for
man (meet means equal)—that is, a companion equal and necessary in full partnership. Presiding in
righteousness necessitates a shared responsibility between husband and wife; together you act with knowledge
and participation in all family matters. For a man to operate independent of or without regard to the feelings
and counsel of his wife in governing the family is to exercise unrighteous dominion.
Howard W. Hunter, “Being a Righteous Husband and Father” Ensign Nov. 1994
Every father in the Church should function as the patriarch of his home. He should take the lead in spiritually
guiding the family. He ought not to delegate nor abrogate his responsibilities to the mother. He should call for
family prayer, family home evening, scripture reading, and occasional father interviews. He is the protector, the
defender, and the kindly source of discipline. It is the father who should lead, unify, and solidify the family unit
by accepting the priesthood of God and responding to the calls and privileges associated with priesthood
authority. His relationship with God and His Son, Jesus Christ, is one of the beacons which will lead his sons and
daughters through the stormy shoals of life.
F. Melvin Hammond, “Dad, Are You Awake?” Ensign Nov. 2002
You men who are husbands and fathers should have had kindled in your hearts tonight, as a result of the
inspiring remarks given by Brother Hanks, a resolve so to conduct yourselves in your homes as to be worthy of
the love, the respect, the honor, the companionship of your wives and your children. Holding the priesthood
does not give any man the right to domineer over those for whom he should show the greatest of love and the
greatest of consideration. Each of us should go home this night with a stronger resolve in our hearts to live
worthy of the companionship of those who love us most and whom we should love and honor and respect
without reservation.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Good and Faithful Servants” Ensign Nov. 1984
I repeat that plea to all fathers. Yours is the basic and inescapable responsibility to stand as the head of the
family. That does not carry with it any implication of dictatorship or unrighteous dominion. It carries with it a
mandate that fathers provide for the needs of their families. Those needs are more than food, clothing, and
shelter. Those needs include righteous direction and the teaching, by example as well as precept, of basic
principles of honesty, integrity, service, respect for the rights of others, and an understanding that we are
Fathers
accountable for that which we do in this life, not only to one another but also to the God of heaven, who is our
Eternal Father.
With the obligation to beget goes the responsibility to nurture, to protect, to teach, to guide in righteousness
and truth. Yours is the power and the responsibility to preside in a home where there is peace and security, love
and harmony.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Bring Up a Child in the Way He Should Go” Ensign Nov. 1993
Brethren, we all know fatherhood is not an easy assignment, but it ranks among the most imperative ever given,
in time or eternity. We must not pull away from our children. We must keep trying, keep reaching, keep praying,
keep listening. We must keep them “within the clasp of our arms.”
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Within the Clasp of Your Arms” Ensign May 1983
With love in my heart for the fathers in Israel, may I suggest ten specific ways that fathers can give spiritual
leadership to their children:
1. Give father’s blessings to your children. Baptize and confirm your children. Ordain your sons to the
priesthood. These will become spiritual highlights in the lives of your children.
2. Personally direct family prayers, daily scripture reading, and weekly family home evenings. Your personal
involvement will show your children how important these activities really are.
3. Whenever possible, attend Church meetings together as a family. Family worship under your leadership is
vital to your children’s spiritual welfare.
4. Go on daddy-daughter dates and father-and-sons’ outings with your children. As a family, go on campouts
and picnics, to ball games and recitals, to school programs, and so forth. Having Dad there makes all the
difference.
5. Build traditions of family vacations and trips and outings. These memories will never be forgotten by your
children.
6. Have regular one-on-one visits with your children. Let them talk about what they would like to. Teach
them gospel principles. Teach them true values. Tell them you love them. Personal time with your children tells
them where Dad puts his priorities.
7. Teach your children to work, and show them the value of working toward a worthy goal. Establishing
mission funds and education funds for your children shows them what Dad considers to be important.
8. Encourage good music and art and literature in your homes. Homes that have a spirit of refinement and
beauty will bless the lives of your children forever.
9. As distances allow, regularly attend the temple with your wife. Your children will then better understand
the importance of temple marriage and temple vows and the eternal family unit.
10. Have your children see your joy and satisfaction in service to the Church. This can become contagious to
them, so they, too, will want to serve in the Church and will love the kingdom.
Ezra Taft Benson, “To the Fathers in Israel” Ensign Nov. 1987
Fathers
A faithful father who holds the Melchizedek Priesthood may bless his own children, and that would be a
patriarchal (father’s) blessing. Such a blessing could be recorded in the family records, but it would not be
preserved in the archives of the Church. Every father who is true to his Priesthood is a patriarch over his own
house. In addition, children may receive a blessing by an ordained patriarch…As the Patriarch of his home, a
father is also a revelator to his family…and…in this sense stands in line to receive the revelations from the Lord
for the good and blessing of that family.
Joseph Fielding Smith, “Doctrines of Salvation” Ensign Jan. 1974
Anyone who has a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ is willing to give his all to the kingdom, but in the
process of that kind of dedicated service, it is important that we do not ignore what Jesus called “the things of
most worth.” For instance, God will never ask any man to sacrifice his family in order to carry out his other
duties in the kingdom. How many times have we tried to stress that the most important of the Lord’s work we
will ever do as fathers and husbands will be within the walls of our own home? Fathers are on the one
assignment from which they cannot be released.
Harold B. Lee, “Teachings of Harold B. Lee”
Certainly, if fathers are to be respected, the must merit respect—if they are to be loved, the must be consistent,
lovable, understanding, and kind—and they must honor their priesthood. They must see themselves as
fortunate trustees of precious spirit children whom God has entrusted to their care.
What a great incentive a mother his to honor and build up her worthy husband in the esteem of the offspring
when she knows that this contributes to the well-adjusted lives of her children. And what a great incentive the
father has for rising to his tallest spiritual stature to merit the love and respect of all members of the family.
And so we plead with you fathers to return to your little kingdoms and, with kindness, justice, proper discipline,
and love, to inspire your family.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball”
And I say unto you, O fathers in Israel; if you will set an example by being honest before God in the payment of
your tithes, if you will observe the Word of Wisdom, if you will observe your family and your secret prayers, God
will give you strength to preserve the youth of Zion as mentioned in this supplication [from the dedication
prayer of the Alberta temple:]
“We especially pray thee, O Father in heaven, to bless the youth of thy people in Zion and in all the world. Shield
them from the adversary and from wicked and designing men. Keep the youth of thy people, O Father, in the
straight and narrow path that leads to thee, preserve them from the pitfalls and snares that are laid for their
feet. O Father, may our children grow up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord Jesus Christ. Give unto them
a testimony of the divinity of this work as thou has given it unto us, and preserve them in purity, and in the
truth. “
Heber J. Grant, “Conference Report” Oct. 1923
I want to say to you that it is your duty and your privilege, as men who hold the Priesthood to honor your wives
and your children if you expect them to honor you. Unless you honor them, God will not be pleased with you.
Live in such a way, in love and kindness, that peace and prayer and thanksgiving will be in your homes together.
Do not let your homes just be a place to hang your hats at night and get your meals and then run off someplace
else but let your homes be the abiding place of the Spirit of the Lord. And so, let us reach out, each of us, help
our neighbors as well as ourselves, set the examples in our homes and as sons and daughters of the living God in
our great community, working hand in hand.
George Albert Smith, “Teachings of George Albert Smith”
Fathers
It is important for young people to realize that intelligent home building begins with a young man and a young
girl in their teens. Often the health of children, if a couple be blessed with such, depends upon the actions of
parents before marriage. In the press, from the pulpit, and particularly in the home, there should ring more
frequently the message that in their youth boys and girls are laying the foundation for their future happiness or
misery. Every young man, particularly, should prepare for the responsibility of fatherhood by keeping himself
physically clean, that he might enter into that responsibility not as a coward or deceiver, but as one honorable
and fit to found a home. The young man who, in unfitness, takes upon himself the responsibility of fatherhood is
worse than a deceiver. The future happiness of his wife and children depends upon his life in youth.
David O. McKay, “Stepping Stones to an Abundant Life” Ensign May 1969
Fatherhood is not a matter of station or wealth; it is a matter of desire, diligence, and determination to see
one’s family exalted in the celestial kingdom. If that prize is lost, nothing else really matters. God bless all the
fathers in Israel to do well the work within the walls of our own homes. With the Lord’s help we shall succeed in
this, our most important responsibility.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Great Things Required of Their Fathers” Ensign May 1981
A man who holds the priesthood leads his family in Church participation so they will know the gospel and be
under the protection of the covenants and ordinances. If you are to enjoy the blessings of the Lord, you must set
your own homes in order. Together with your wife, you determine the spiritual climate of your home. Your first
obligation is to get your own spiritual life in order through regular scriptural study and daily prayer. Secure and
honor your priesthood and temple covenants; encourage your family to do the same.
Take seriously your responsibility to teach the gospel to your family through regular family home evening, family
prayer, devotional and scripture-reading time, and other teaching moments. Give special emphasis to
preparation for missionary service and temple marriage. As patriarch in the home, exercise your priesthood
through performing the appropriate ordinances for your family and by giving blessings to your wife and children.
Next to your own salvation, brethren, there is nothing so important to you as the salvation of your wife and
children.
Howard W. Hunter, “Being a Righteous Husband and Father” Ensign Nov. 1994
It becomes the duties of fathers in Israel to wake up and become saviors of men, that they may walk before the
Lord in that strength of faith, and that determined energy, that will insure them the inspiration of the Almighty
to teach the words of life to their families, as well as to teach them when they are called into this stand. Then all
our words will savor of life and salvation wherever we go, and wherever we are.
Lorenzo Snow, “Journal of Discourses”
The Lord bless you. Peace abide with you; and, oh, may the fathers in Israel live as they should live; treat their
wives as they should treat them; make their homes as comfortable as they possibly can; lighten the burdens
upon their companions as much as possible; set a proper example before their children; teach them to meet
with them in prayer, morning, and night, and whenever they sit down to partake of food, to acknowledge the
mercy of God in giving them the food that they ear and the raiment that they wear, and acknowledge the hand
of God in all things. This is our duty, and if we do not do it the Lord will be displeased for He has said so. He is
only pleased with those who acknowledge His hand in all things.
Joseph F. Smith, “Conference Report” Oct. 1909
Forgive
Forgive
The doctrine is clear. We all depend on the Savior; none of us can be saved without Him. Christ’s Atonement is
infinite and eternal. Forgiveness for our sins comes with conditions. We must repent, and we must be willing to
forgive others. Jesus taught: “Forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not … *stands+ condemned before the
Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin” and “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Merciful Obtain Mercy” Ensign May 2012
Forgiveness is the miraculous ingredient that assures harmony and love in the home or the ward. Without it
there is contention. Without understanding and forgiveness there is dissension, followed by lack of harmony,
and this breeds disloyalty in homes, in branches and in wards.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Miracle of Forgiveness”
Closely related to our own obligation to repent is the generosity of letting others do the same—we are to forgive
even as we are forgiven. In this we participate in the very essence of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Surely the
most majestic moment of that fateful Friday, when nature convulsed and the veil of the temple was rent, was
that unspeakably merciful moment when Christ said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”
As our advocate with the Father, He is still making that same plea today—in your behalf and in mine.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Peaceable Things of the Kingdom” Ensign Nov. 1996
I do not know who in this vast audience today may need to hear the message of forgiveness inherent in this
parable, but however late you think you are, however many chances you think you have missed, however many
mistakes you feel you have made or talents you think you don’t have, or however far from home and family and
God you feel you have traveled, I testify that you have not traveled beyond the reach of divine love. It is not
possible for you to sink lower than the infinite light of Christ’s Atonement shines.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Laborers in the Vineyard” Ensign May 2012
May I add a footnote here? When the Lord requires that we forgive all men, that includes forgiving ourselves.
Sometimes, of all the people in the world, the one who is the hardest to forgive—as well as perhaps the one
who is most in need of our forgiveness—is the person looking back at us in the mirror.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Merciful Obtain Mercy” Ensign May 2012
My idea of forgiveness is letting go of resentment that does not serve your better interest, ridding yourself of
negative thoughts. All they do is make you miserable. Believe me, you can fret and fume all you want, but
whoever it was that wronged you is not suffering from your anguish whatsoever.
Della Reese
“During those long, prayerful moments … I tapped into a life-giving source of comfort from my loving Heavenly
Father. I sense that he was not standing by glaring at me for not having accomplished forgiveness yet; rather he
was sorrowing with me as I wept. …
“In the final analysis, what happened in my heart is for me an amazing and miraculous evidence of the
Atonement of Christ. I had always viewed the Atonement as a means of making repentance work for the sinner.
I had not realized that it also makes it possible for the one sinned against to receive into his or her heart the
sweet peace of forgiving.”
James E. Faust, “The Atonement: Our Greatest Hope” Ensign Nov. 2001
Forgive
If we would sue for peace, taking the initiative in settling differences-if we would forgive and forget with all our
hearts-if we would cleanse our own souls of sin, bitterness, and guilt before we cast a stone or accusation at
others-if we would forgive all real or fancied offenses before we asked forgiveness for our own sins-if we would
pay our own debts, large or small, before we pressed our debtors-if we would manage to clear our own eyes of
the blinding beams before we magnified the motes in the eyes of others-what a glorious world this would be!
Divorce would be reduced to a minimum; courts would be freed from disgusting routines; family life would be
heavenly; the building of the kingdom would go forward at an accelerated pace; and that peace which passeth
understanding [see Philippians 4:7] would bring to us all a joy and happiness that has hardly ‘entered into the
heart of man.’ *See 1 Corinthians 2:9+
Spencer W. Kimball, “Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball, (2006)”
The Lord indicates a…serious problem with harboring an unforgiving heart” ‘Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye
ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before
the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin.’ (D&C 64:9) Is the Lord truly saying that refusing to forgive
another is a greater sin than the offense committed against us? Yes. Truman Madsen suggests one reason for
this: In refusing to forgive another, we, in effect, attempt to deny the blessings of the Atonement to that person:
‘You may have reached the point of desperation in your own life when you have prayed and yearned for
forgiveness of your own guilt and sin. But then you turn and say, ‘But not him! Don’t forgive him! I’m not going
to, he doesn’t deserve it.’ You will then close the channel of love and compassion and revelation from the Lord.
You seek to nullify His atonement for others. It is like triple plate steel against water.’
*Truman G. Madsen, “On Forgiveness” 1978+ Roderick J. Linton, Ensign April 1993
It becomes us as a grateful people to reach out with a spirit of forgiveness and an attitude of love and
compassion toward those whom we have felt may have wronged us. We have need of this. The whole world has
need of it. It is of the very essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
How difficult it is for any of us to forgive those who have injured us. We are all prone to brood on the evil done
us. That brooding becomes as a gnawing and destructive canker. Is there a virtue more in need of application in
our time than the virtue of forgiving and forgetting?
If there be any within the sound of my voice who nurture in their hearts the poisonous brew of enmity toward
another, I plead with you to ask the Lord for strength to forgive. This expression of desire will be of the very
substance of your repentance. It may not be easy, and it may not come quickly. But if you will seek it with
sincerity and cultivate it, it will come. And even though he whom you have forgiven continues to pursue and
threaten you, you will know you have done what you could to effect a reconciliation. There will come into your
heart a peace otherwise unattainable.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Of You It Is Required to Forgive” Ensign Nov. 1980
“Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for
them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” (Matt. 5:43–44.)
Most of us have not reached that stage of compassion and love and forgiveness. It is not easy. It requires a selfdiscipline almost greater than we are capable of. But as we try, we come to know that there is a resource of
healing, that there is a mighty power of healing in Christ, and that if we are to be His true servants we must not
only exercise that healing power in behalf of others, but, perhaps more important, inwardly.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Healing Power of Christ” Ensign Nov. 1988
Forgive
So many of us are prone to say we forgive, when in fact we are unwilling to forget. If the Lord is willing to forget
the sins of the repentant, then why are so many of us inclined to bring up the past again and again? Here is a
great lesson we all need to learn. There is no true forgiveness without forgetting.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Order and Will of God” Ensign Jan. 1989
You want to be happy? Forget yourself and get lost in this great cause, and bend your efforts to helping people.
Cultivate a spirit of forgiveness in your heart against any who might have offended you. Look to the Lord and
live, and work to lift and serve His sons and daughters. You will come to know happiness like you’ve never
known it before. I don’t care how old you are, how young you are. You can lift people and help them. Heaven
knows there are so very, very many people in this world who need help…Let’s get the cankering, selfish attitude
out of our lives…and stand a little taller and reach a little higher in the service of others.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Nottingham, England August 1995
Teach our people always to forgive and forget. Get it behind them. We carry the cankering evil of memories of
little things that destroy us and destroy our feelings, whereas with just a little turnaround, a little kindness, we
could bestow blessings upon people.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Regional Conference” April 1996
Don’t ever feel that you can’t be forgiven. Our Father in Heaven loves you. He is your Father. He is your
Heavenly Parent. He has great concern for you. He reaches out to you in love and in forgiveness…The Lord has
said, “I the Lord will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men” (D&C 64:10). That is
a mandate to us. Our Father in Heaven will take care of the forgiveness.
Gordon B. Hinckley, at Southern Utah University Feb. 1997
How will I know when I am forgiven? That is a serious problem for a lot of young people. They make mistakes,
some of them very small mistakes and some of them major mistakes. They worry, wonder and fret and stew
about their mistakes. Please ask the Lord to forgive you if you feel you have made a mistake. There may be a
penalty that you will have to pay if the mistake is a serious one.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Regional Conference” March 1997
And when God has forgiven us, which He is so eternally anxious to do, may we have the good sense to walk
away from those problems, to leave them alone, to let the past bury the past. If one of you has made a mistake,
even a serious mistake, but you’ve done all you can according to the teachings of the Lord and the governance
of the Church to confess it and feel sorrow for it and set it as right as can be, then trust in God, walk into His light
and leave the ashes behind you.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “General Conference” Oct. 1996
Gifts of the Spirit - Government
Gifts of the Spirit
Faith is a spiritual gift. So is personal revelation. So is a testimony of Jesus Christ. And there are other spiritual
gifts. We know too little about spiritual gifts. This is evident in our communications, and it is also evident in our
failure to seek after and use spiritual gifts.
We should seek after spiritual gifts. They can lead us to God. They can shield us from the power of the
adversary. They can compensate for our inadequacies and repair our imperfections. Almost a century ago
President George Q. Cannon of the First Presidency taught the Saints:
“If any of us are imperfect, it is our duty to pray for the gift that will make us perfect. … No man ought to say,
‘Oh, I cannot help this; it is my nature.’ He is not justified in it, for the reason that God has promised to give
strength to correct these things, and to give gifts that will eradicate them. If a man lacks wisdom, it is his duty to
ask God for wisdom. The same with everything else. That is the design of God concerning His Church. He wants
His Saints to be perfected in the truth. For this purpose He gives these gifts, and bestows them upon those who
seek after them, in order that they may be a perfect people upon the face of the earth.” (Millennial Star, Apr.
1894, p. 260.)
Dallin H. Oaks, “Spiritual Gifts” Ensign 1986
As we follow [the Savior], He blesses us with gifts, talents, and the strength to do His will, allowing us to go
beyond our comfort zones and do things we’ve never before thought possible.
Robert D. Hales, "Being a More Christian Christian” Ensign Nov. 2012
Faith comes by hearing the word of God. If a man has not faith enough to do one thing, he may have faith to do
another: if he cannot remove a mountain, he may heal the sick. Where faith is there will be some of the fruits:
all gifts and power which were sent from heaven, were poured out on the heads of those who had faith.
Joseph Smith, “Faith” 1843
Government
Consider these words written by Abraham Lincoln as part of a resolution in 1863:
“We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in
peace and prosperity; we have grown in number, wealth, and power as no other Nation has ever grown. But we
have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and
enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these
blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success we
have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to
the God who made us.
“It behooves us, then, to humble ourselves before the offended power, to confess our … sins, and to pray for
clemency and forgiveness.” (John Wesley Hill, Abraham Lincoln, Man of God, 4th ed., New York: G. P. Putnam’s
Sons, p. 391.)
Marion G. Romney, “Gratitude and Thanksgiving” Ensign Nov. 1982
Government
We are children of God, literally. That being the case, God’s word should be uppermost in our minds in trying to
bring about worth-while government. Until we as a people in particular, and the sons and daughters of God in
general, realize that our civil governments will be failures so long as they are not based upon divine guidance, so
long will we continue to have strife, conflict, and bloodshed.
Joseph F. Smith, “Conference Report” Oct. 1943
The only way to avoid being deceived is to get the facts. There are people who would try to hide the facts from
us and replace the truth with a falsehood. They want us to believe that America is a failure, that her system of
capitalistic free enterprise is doomed, that she must remedy her failures by adopting theories of collectivized
control. I recognize these voices. I heard them in forty-three nations which I visited in the past. I heard them
often during my eight years in Washington. None of them came to me in the name of communism or even
socialism, but they came. And while many of us fought them and resisted them on every front, nevertheless, it
was alarming to discover how many others were willing to believe and follow. Why do otherwise loyal
Americans believe and follow? Because these voices came from masters of deception.
Ezra Taft Benson, “The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson” Page 405
1965: The audio is of Paul Harvey explaining how he would destroy us [America] if he were Satan…
“If I were the devil, I wouldn’t be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree—Thee. So I’d set about
however necessary to take over the United States. I’d subvert the churches first—I would begin with a campaign
of whispers. With the wisdom of a serpent, I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve: “Do as you please.”
“Do as you please.” To the young, I would whisper, “The Bible is a myth.” I would convince them that man
created God instead of the other way around. I would confide that what is bad is good, and what is good is
“square.” And the old, I would teach to pray. I would teach them to pray for me, ‘Our Father, which art in
Washington…”
And then I’d get organized. I’d educate authors on how to lurid literature exciting, so that anything else would
appear dull and uninteresting. I’d threaten TV with dirtier movies and vice versa. I’d pedal narcotics to whom I
could. I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.
If I were the devil I’d soon have families that war with themselves, churches that war with themselves and
nations that war with themselves; until each in its turn was consumed. And with promises of higher ratings I’d
have mesmerizing media fanning the flame. If I were the devil I would encourage schools to refine young
intellects, and neglect to discipline emotions—just let those run wild, until before you knew it, you’d have to
have drug sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door.
Within a decade I’d have prisons overflowing, I’d have judges promoting pornography—soon I could evict God
from the courthouse, and then the schoolhouse, and then from the houses of Congress. And in His own
churches I would substitute psychology for religion, and deify science. I would lure priests and pastors into
misusing boys and girls, and church money. If I were the devil I’d make the symbols of Easter an egg and the
Symbol of Christmas a bottle.
Gratitude
Gratitude
Gratitude brings a peace that helps us overcome the pain of adversity and failure. Gratitude on a daily basis
means we express appreciation for what we have now without qualification for what we had in the past or
desire in the future. A recognition of and appreciation for our gifts and talents which have been given also
allows us to acknowledge the need for help and assistance from the gifts and talents possessed by others.
Robert D. Hales, “Gratitude for the Goodness of God” Ensign May 1992
In some quiet way, the expression and feelings of gratitude have a wonderful cleansing or healing nature.
Gratitude brings warmth to the giver and the receiver alike. Gratitude expressed to our Heavenly Father in
prayer for what we have brings a calming peace—a peace which allows us to not canker our souls for what we
don’t have.
Robert D. Hales, “Gratitude for the Goodness of God” Ensign May 1992
Gratitude is a state of appreciation, an act of thanksgiving, which causes us to be humble because we recognize
an act of kindness, service, or caring from someone else which lifts us and strengthens us.
Robert D. Hales, “Gratitude for the Goodness of God” Ensign May 1992
My brothers and sisters, do we give thanks to God “for his unspeakable gift” and His rich blessings so abundantly
bestowed upon us?
Do we pause and ponder Ammon’s words? “Now my brethren, we see that God is mindful of every people,
whatsoever land they may be in; yea, he numbereth his people, … over all the earth. Now this is my joy, and my
great thanksgiving; yea, and I will give thanks unto my God forever.”
Robert W. Woodruff, a prominent business leader of a former time, toured the United States giving a lecture
which he entitled “A Capsule Course in Human Relations.” In his message, he said that the two most important
words in the English language are these: “Thank you.”
Gracias, danke, merci—whatever language is spoken, “thank you” frequently expressed will cheer your spirit,
broaden your friendships, and lift your lives to a higher pathway as you journey toward perfection. There is a
simplicity—even a sincerity—when “thank you” is spoken.
Thomas S. Monson, “Think to Thank” Ensign Nov. 1998
True gratitude is the ability to humbly see, feel, and even receive love. Gratitude is a form of returning love to
God. Recognize His hand, tell Him so, express your love to Him. As you come to truly know the Lord, you will
find an intimate, sacred relationship built on trust. You will come to know He understands your anguish and will,
in compassion, always respond to you in love.
Gene R. Cook, “Charity: Perfect and Everlasting Love” Ensign May 2002
We can live in thanksgiving daily by opening our arms to those around us. When was the last time you told
someone you love how much they mean to you? When was the last time you expressed your gratitude to
someone who has always been there for you, someone who has sacrificed for you, someone whose heart has
always been filled with hopes and dreams for you?
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Live in Thanksgiving Daily” Ensign Sept. 2001
Gratitude
It is what we feel, and the more we feel, under the inspiration of the Spirit of God, the happier we are. And at
this season, as children of our Father in heaven, blessed above the world, many, many times over, possessed of
opportunities and privileges that the world knows nothing about, we may well be earnestly grateful for the
goodness of the Lord to us, and we may wells how our gratitude by honoring him and keeping his
commandments.
Let us not put away from us the things of God. Let us retain in our homes the influence of prayer and of
thanksgiving, and let gratitude rise to him who is the Author of our being and the Giver of all good. Let us
appreciate all these blessings, yes, but not forget the Giver. Let him know by the conduct of our lives that we
appreciate him and all that we enjoy.
George Albert Smith, “Conference Report” October 1974
God help us to be grateful for our blessings, never to be guilty of the sin of ingratitude, and to instill this same
gratitude into the lives of our children. Someone has said that an ungrateful man is like a hog under a tree eating
apples and never looking up to see where they come from.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson”
It seems evident that the Lord is afflicted each time we are afflicted, that He will send angels to help us, and that
in His love He helps us daily, whether we know it or not. How our hearts out to be drawn out in gratitude for the
grace of the Father and the Son!
Gene R. Cook, “The Grace of the Lord” New Era Dec. 1988
In all their afflictions he was afflicted. And the angel of his presence saved them; and in his love, and in his pity,
he redeemed them, and bore them, and carried them all the days of old.
D&C 133:53
Cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving in your lives. Make it of the very nature of your lives. It will impart an added
dimension to your characters that will give depth and strength. The Lord has said, ‘The meek shall inherit the
earth.’ (See Matthew 5:5) I cannot escape the interpretation that meekness implies a spirit of gratitude as
opposed to an attitude of self-sufficiency, an acknowledgment of a greater power beyond oneself who is the
giver of every good gift, a recognition of God and an acceptance of His commandments. This is the beginning of
wisdom…
This is my plea to you this day in this devotional service—walk in thanksgiving before God and with appreciation
before your associates. Add to your spirit of thanksgiving a great spirit of service, that you might bring to others
the marvelous blessings which you yourself enjoy. As you look forward to your lives, as you prepare for the
future, think if serving those beyond yourself. Reach out in service to others.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “How Lucky Can You Be!” BYU Speech Oct. 1964
In many countries, the homes are barren and the cupboards bare—no books, no radios, no pictures, no
furniture, no fire—while we are housed adequately, clothed warmly, fed extravagantly. Did we show our thanks
by the proper devotion on our knees last night and this morning and tomorrow morning?
Ingratitude, thou sinful habit!
Around the world are millions groping in the dark, fettered through superstition and fear and insecurity. Here
we live in the light with joy and love and abundance and hope…
Gratitude
Behind all the walls and all the curtains of oppression and dictatorship, behind the walls of force and slavery, live
millions of our brothers and sisters in fear while we live in liberty and privilege. Do we appreciate that and do we
express our gratitude in solemn thanksgiving?
Spencer W. Kimball, “The Most Perfect Personage Was the Most Perfect Teacher” 1975
How can we cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude? President Joseph F. Smith, sixth President of
the Church, provided an answer. Said he: “The grateful man sees so much in the world to be thankful for, and
with him the good outweighs the evil. Love overpowers jealousy, and light drives darkness out of his life.” He
continued: “Pride destroys our gratitude and sets up selfishness in its place. How much happier we are in the
presence of a grateful and loving soul, and how careful we should be to cultivate, through the medium of a
prayerful life, a thankful attitude toward God and man!”
Thomas S. Monson, "The Divine Gift of Gratitude," Ensign Nov. 2010
THE LIST
How long would your list be if you took an inventory of your blessings—all of that for which you can give thanks?
For family? For friends? For faith? For health and the necessities of life? Do you have these necessities of living?
How long would your list be if you took inventory of your blessings and added one new item daily? Would you
be amazed at the size of the list?
You have 1,140 minutes in every day. How would your life be different if you spent just 15 of those minutes daily
giving thanks? Just 15 minutes filling your mind with concrete examples of how fortunate you are? Most of us
would discover even after a few days that the exercise was life changing!
Gratitude List
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Heather – love, support, help, talents, encouragement, forgiving, time, travelling
Children
Grandchildren
Opportunities to improve
Opportunities to learn
Wonderful work
Parents who taught by example
Computers
E-mail
Backyard
Responsible and skilled co-workers
UPS – very reliable
Ease of travel around the country, world
Hawaiian beauty, music, weather, beach
Cell phone
Supermarkets
Inspiration
Confortable bed
Music
Wholesome work environment
Gratitude – Holy Ghost
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Christmas spirit
Playing an occasional football game
Jacuzzi after football
Doctors, dentists, nurses
Nitrous oxide gas at the dentist
Reliable cars
Pets
Bird feeder and birds
Flowers
Newspapers
All children live in St. George
New office/warehouse
Wise counsel
Eyesight
Hearing
Running hot water
Lights, electricity
Refrigerator
Fresh fruit
Good jokes
Talk radio
Police, firemen
Military people
Holy Ghost
Cultivate and be where the Spirit of the Lord is. Make sure that includes your own home or apartment, dictating
the kind of art, music, and literature you keep there. If you are endowed, go to the temple as often as your
circumstances allow. Remember that the temple arms you “with *God’s+ power, … *puts His+ glory … round
about [you], and [gives His+ angels … charge over *you+.” And when you leave the temple, remember the
symbols you take with you, never to be set aside or forgotten.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Place No More for the Enemy of My Soul” Ensign May 2010
By participating weekly and appropriately in the ordinance of the sacrament we qualify for the promise that we
will “always have his Spirit to be with *us+” (D&C 20:77). That Spirit is the foundation of our testimony. It testifies
of the Father and the Son, brings all things to our remembrance, and leads us into truth.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Sacrament Meeting and the Sacrament” Ensign Nov. 2008
A testimony is what we know to be true in our minds and in our hearts by the witness of the Holy Ghost (see
D&C 8:2). As we profess truth rather than admonish, exhort, or simply share interesting experiences, we invite
the Holy Ghost to confirm the verity of our words. The power of pure testimony (see Alma 4:19) does not come
from sophisticated language or effective presentation; rather, it is the result of revelation conveyed by the third
Holy Ghost
member of the Godhead, even the Holy Ghost.
David A. Bednar, “More Diligent and Concerned at Home” Ensign Nov. 2009
I say to this people, Do as you are told; and if you live by every righteous principle that you can learn and forsake
every evil principle and act through your whole lives as becometh Saints of the Most High, all will be well. Can
men live so that they can have the serene, blessed, calm, soft, soothing Spirit of the Lord always to abide with
them? Yes, they can. And if they are tempted, they can resist temptation. Can women? They can. If they have
temptation they can resist it, and it will flee from them, and they will gain a victory.
Brigham Young, “Journal of Discourses”
The gift of the Holy Ghost, if you consent, will guide and protect you and even correct your actions. It is a
spiritual voice that comes into the mind as a thought or a feeling put into your heart. It is not expected that you
go through life without making mistakes, but you will not make a major mistake without first being warned by
the promptings of the Spirit. This promise applies to all members of the Church.
Boyd K. Packer, “Counsel to Youth” Ensign Nov. 2011
Discovering how the Holy Ghost operates in your life is the quest of a lifetime. Once you have made that
discovery for yourself, you can live in enemy territory and will not be deceived or destroyed. No member of this
Church—and that means … you—will ever make a serious mistake without first being warned by the promptings
of the Holy Ghost.
Boyd K. Packer, Ensign Oct. 2012
When the children of Israel were wandering in the wilderness, the Lord guided their journey each day as they
looked to Him for direction. In Exodus we read, “And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to
lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light.” His leading was constant, and I give you my
humble witness that the Lord can do the same for us.
So how will He lead us today? Through prophets, apostles, and priesthood leaders and through feelings that
come after we pour out our hearts and souls to Heavenly Father in prayer. He leads us as we forsake the things
of the world, repent, and change. He leads us as we keep His commandments and try to be more like Him. And
He leads us through the Holy Ghost.
Carl B. Cook, “It Is Better to Look Up” Ensign Nov. 2011
It is when we yield to God’s will and live His pattern that His Spirit is felt. The Savior taught, “By this shall all men
know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). This principle of having love one to
another and developing our ability to be Christ-centered in how we think, speak, and act is fundamental in
becoming disciples of Christ and teachers of His gospel.
Paul E. Koelliker, “He Truly Loves Us” Ensign May 2012
How do we achieve spirituality? How do we attain that degree of holiness where we can have the constant
companionship of the Holy Ghost? How do we come to view and evaluate the things of this world with the
perspective of eternity?
We seek spirituality through faith, repentance, and baptism; through forgiveness of one another; through
fasting and prayer; through righteous desires and pure thoughts and actions. We seek spirituality through
service to our fellowmen; through worship; through feasting on the word of God, in the scriptures and the
teachings of the living prophets. We attain spirituality through making and keeping covenants, through
conscientiously trying to keep all the commandments of God. Spirituality is not acquired suddenly. It is the
Holy Ghost
consequence of a succession of right choices. It is the harvest of a righteous life.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Spirituality” Ensign Nov. 1985
The companionship of the spirit of the Lord is an antidote for weariness…for fear and all those things that
sometimes overtake us in life.
George Albert Smith, “Teachings of Presidents of the Church: George Albert Smith, 2010”
May I suggest five beginning, essential measures that will greatly clear the channel for a daily flow of “living
water” from the very source of the spring (see John 4:7–15).
First, a daily communion involving prayer.
Second, a daily selfless service to another.
Third, a daily striving for an increased obedience and perfection in our lives.
Fourth, a daily acknowledgment of His divinity.
Fifth, a daily study of the scriptures.
James E. Faust, “That We Might Know Thee” Ensign Jan. 1999
I am convinced that there is no simple formula or technique that would immediately allow you to master the
ability to be guided by the voice of the Spirit. Our Father expects you to learn how to obtain that divine help by
exercising faith in Him and His Holy Son, Jesus Christ. Were you to receive inspired guidance just for the asking,
you would become weak and ever more dependent on Them. They know that essential personal growth will
come as you struggle to learn how to be led by the Spirit.
Richard G. Scott, “To Acquire Spiritual Guidance” Ensign Nov. 2009
I believe the Spirit of the Holy Ghost is the greatest guarantor of inward peace in our unstable world. It can be
more mind-expanding and can make us have a better sense of well-being than any chemical or other earthly
substance. It will calm nerves; it will breathe peace to our souls. This Comforter can be with us as we seek to
improve. It can function as a source of revelation to warn us of impending danger and also help keep us from
making mistakes. It can enhance our natural senses so that we can see more clearly, hear more keenly, and
remember what we should remember. It is a way of maximizing our happiness.
James E. Faust, “The Gift of the Holy Ghost—A Sure Compass” Ensign May 1989
Fortunately, our Savior has given us a direction finder and guide that will help us even when we cannot see
beyond discouraging obstacles. I refer to the gift of the Holy Ghost. But we must be willing to use and rely on
this divine gift, and we must keep it in good repair.
Dallin H. Oaks, “The Gospel Culture” Liahona March 2012
President John Taylor wrote: “Joseph Smith, upwards of forty years ago, said to me: ‘Brother Taylor, you have
received the Holy Ghost. Now follow the influence of that Spirit, and it will lead you into all truth, until by and
by, it will become in you a principle of revelation.’ Then he told me never to arise in the morning without bowing
before the Lord, and dedicating myself to him during that day.”
Father in Heaven knew that you would face challenges and be required to make some decisions that would be
beyond your own ability to decide correctly. In His plan of happiness, He included a provision for you to receive
help with such challenges and decisions during your mortal life. That assistance will come to you through the
Holy Ghost as spiritual guidance. It is a power, beyond your own capability, that a loving Heavenly Father wants
you to use consistently for your peace and happiness.
Richard G. Scott, “To Acquire Spiritual Guidance” Ensign Nov. 2009
Holy Ghost
There is a simple cure for the terrible malady of forgetting God, His blessings, and His messages to us. Jesus
Christ promised it to His disciples when He was about to be crucified, resurrected, and then taken away from
them to ascend in glory to His Father. They were concerned to know how they would be able to endure when He
was no longer with them.
Henry B. Eyring, “O Remember, Remember” Ensign Nov. 2007
To be without guile is to be pure in heart—an essential virtue of those who would be counted among true
followers of Christ. He taught in the Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see
God” (Matt. 5:8; see also 3 Ne. 12:8). He revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith that Zion is the pure in heart (see
D&C 97:21) and that a house is to be built in Zion in which the pure in heart shall see God (see D&C 97:10–16).
If we are without guile, we are honest, true, and righteous. All of these are attributes of Deity and are required
of the Saints. Those who are honest are fair and truthful in their speech, straightforward in their dealings, free of
deceit, and above stealing, misrepresentation, or any other fraudulent action. Honesty is of God and dishonesty
of the devil; the devil was a liar from the beginning. Righteousness is living a life that is in harmony with the
laws, principles, and ordinances of the gospel.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Without Guile” Ensign May 1988
What a great and powerful friend is this gift of the Holy Ghost! Certainly all who will turn to the Savior and abide
by his laws will be healed by this Spirit (see 3 Ne. 9:13). They will have the mind of Christ (see 1 Cor. 2:16), they
will be “partakers of the divine nature” (2 Pet. 1:4), they will begin to have the image of Christ in their
countenances (see Alma 5:14). Truly the gospel comes, as Paul said, not only in word, “but also in power,” the
sanctifying, cleansing, soul-enlarging power of the Holy Spirit (1 Thes. 1:5).
Loren C. Dunn, “The Spirit Giveth Life” Ensign May 1979
Inspiration and revelation are so common, so widespread, so universal among the leaders and faithful members
of this church that there is a strong spiritual base underlying what is done. This can be found in the gatherings,
both large and small.
Why does this church grow and flourish? It does so because of divine direction to the leaders and members.
Latter-day Saints, having received the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, are entitled to personal
inspiration in the small events of life as well as when they are confronted with the giant Goliaths of life.
Personal revelation comes as a testimony of truth and as guidance in spiritual and temporal matters. Members
of the Church know that the promptings of the Spirit may be received upon all facets of life, including daily,
ongoing decisions (see D&C 42:61).
There are some guidelines and rules necessary for one to be the recipient of revelation and inspiration; they
include (1) to try honestly and sincerely to keep God’s commandments, (2) to be spiritually attuned as a receiver
of a divine message, (3) to ask in humble, fervent prayer, and (4) to seek with unwavering faith.
I testify that inspiration can be the spring of every person’s hope, guidance, and strength. It is one of the
magnificent treasures of life.
James E. Faust, “Communion with the Holy Spirit” Ensign May 1980
How do we achieve spirituality? How do we attain that degree of holiness where we can have the constant
companionship of the Holy Ghost? How do we come to view and evaluate the things of this world with the
perspective of eternity? We seek spirituality through faith, repentance, and baptism; through forgiveness of one
Holy Ghost
another; through fasting and prayer; through righteous desires and pure thoughts and actions. We seek
spirituality through service to our fellowmen; through worship; through feasting on the word of God, in the
scriptures and the teachings of the living prophets. We attain spirituality through making and keeping
covenants, through conscientiously trying to keep all the commandments of God. Spirituality is not acquired
suddenly. It is the consequence of a succession of right choices. It is the harvest of a righteous life.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Spirituality” Ensign Nov. 1985
Listen to the still, small voice when you are faced with a time of decision. It will surely be a strong warning voice
to tell you to turn off the wrong kind of music, to flee from the degrading television programs, or to get out of a
Web page that will only bring evil thoughts into your mind. The Holy Spirit will let you know when you are in
forbidden territory.
I promise you, if you will heed the voice of warning of the Holy Ghost and will follow His direction, you will be
blessed with the ministering of angels, which will add wisdom, knowledge, power, and glory to your life.
Remember, the Lord is bound by solemn covenant to bless our lives according to our faithfulness. Only He can
turn us into men in whom the Spirit of God, namely the Holy Ghost, is.
L. Tom Perry, “Becoming Men in Whom the Spirit of God Is” Ensign May 2002
“The Holy Ghost causes our feelings to be more tender. We feel more charitable and compassionate with each
other. We are more calm in our relationships. We have a greater capacity to love each other. People want to be
around us because our very countenances radiate the influence of the Spirit. We are more godly in our
character. As a result, we become increasingly more sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Ghost and thus able
to comprehend spiritual things more clearly.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Seek the Spirit of the Lord” Ensign April 1988
There are only two elements that separate us from the Holy Spirit: first, our lack of desire to repent, and second,
our lack of desire to forgive.
F. Enzio Busche, “Hitting the Mark” New Era Oct. 1997
The Book of Mormon prophets make it very clear that the Holy Ghost is willing to exert a very powerful
influence in our lives when we are responsive to his promptings. Nephi, Mormon, and Ether explained that the
Spirit strives with us to guide our lives on righteous paths (see 2 Ne. 26:11; Morm. 5:16; Ether 2:15). Moroni
proclaimed that the Spirit persuades us to do good (see Ether 4:11–12). Amulek taught that the Holy Ghost
contends with us to do that which is right (see Alma 34:38), and King Benjamin explained that the Holy Ghost
entices us to be righteous (see Mosiah 3:19).
Spence J. Condie, “Agency: The Gift of Choices” Ensign Sept. 1995
The greatest gift in mortality is the gift of the Holy Ghost, which is ‘the right to have, whenever one is worthy,
the companionship of the Holy Ghost’ (LDS Bible Dictionary, ‘Holy Ghost’). The Holy Ghost is the custodian of all
the gifts of the Spirit, chief among which is the gift of the knowledge of God (D&C 46:12-14; John 17:3). The gift
of the Holy Ghost is the key to obtaining the gift of eternal life, the greatest of all the gifts of God.
David A. Burton, “I Have a Question” Ensign Feb. 1999
As starving men crave a crust of bread, as choking men thirst for water, so do the righteous year for the Holy
Ghost. The Holy Ghost is a Revelator: he is a Sanctifier; he reveals truth, and he cleanses human souls. He is the
Spirit of Truth, and his baptism is one of fire; he burns dross and evil out of repentant souls as though by fire.
The gift of the Holy Ghost is the greatest of all the gifts of God, as pertaining to this life; and those who enjoy
Holy Ghost
that gift here and now, will inherit eternal life hereafter, which is the greatest of all the gifts of God in eternity.
Bruce R. McConkie, “The Mortal Messiah”
When a man has the manifestation from the Holy Ghost it leaves an indelible impression on his soul, one that is
not easily erased. It is Spirit speaking to spirit, and it comes with convincing force. A manifestation of an angel,
or even the Son of God himself, would impress the eye and mind, and eventually become dimmed, but the
impressions of the Holy Ghost sink deeper into the soul and are more difficult to erase.
Joseph Fielding Smith, “Answers to Gospel Questions”
With faith and obedience practiced long enough, the Holy Ghost becomes a constant companion, our natures
change, and endurance becomes certain.
Henry B. Eyring, “True Friends” Ensign May 2002
The minute a man stops supplicating God for his spirit and directions just so soon he starts out to become a
stranger to him and his works. When men stop praying for God’s spirit, they place confidence in their own
unaided reason, and they gradually lose the spirit of God, just the same as near and dear friends, by never
writing to or visiting with each other, will become strangers. We should all pray that God may never leave us
alone for a moment without his spirit to aid and assist us in withstanding sin and temptation.
Heber J. Grant, “Conference Report” Oct. 1944
The gift of the Holy Ghost adapts itself to all *of man’s+ organs or attributes. It quickens all the intellectual
faculties, increases, enlarges, expands and purifies all the natural passions and affections, and adapts them, by
the gift of wisdom, to their lawful use. It inspires, develops, cultivates and matures all the fine toned sympathies,
joys, tastes, kindred feelings, and affections of our nature. It inspires virtue, kindness, goodness, tenderness,
gentleness, and charity. It develops beauty of person, form and features. It tends to health, vigor, animation and
social feeling. It develops and invigorates all the faculties of the physical and intellectual man. It strengthens,
invigorates and gives tone to the nerves. In short, it is, as it were marrow to the bone, joy to the heart, light to
the eyes, music to the ears, and life to the whole being.
Parley P. Pratt, “Key to the Science of Theology” 1891
If we keep the commandments “the Holy Ghost shall be *our+ constant companion” (D&C 121:46) to buoy us up,
to teach us, lead us, comfort us, and sustain us. To obtain this companionship, we need to ask for it, to live for it,
to be loyal to the Lord.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Words of the Prophet: The Gift of the Holy Ghost” New Era Jan. 2005
When we meet to learn the doctrines of the gospel, it should be in a spirit of reverence. It is about reverence
and how it relates to revelation that I wish to speak.
Inspiration comes more easily in peaceful settings. Such words as quiet, still, peaceable, Comforter abound in
the scriptures…
The world grows increasingly noisy. Clothing and grooming and conduct are looser and sloppier and more
disheveled. Raucous music, with obscene lyrics blasted through amplifiers while lights flash psychedelic colors,
characterizes the drug culture. Variations of these things are gaining wide acceptance and influence over our
youth.
This trend to more noise, more excitement, more contention, less restraint, less dignity, less formality is not
coincidental nor innocent nor harmless.
Holy Ghost – Jesus Christ
The first order issued by a commander mounting a military invasion is the jamming of the channels of
communication of those he intends to conquer.
Irreverence suits the purposes of the adversary by obstructing the delicate channels of revelation in both mind
and spirit.
No one of us can survive in the world of today, much less in what it soon will become, without personal
inspiration. The spirit of reverence can and should be evident in every organization in the Church and in the lives
of every member.
Boyd K. Packer, “Reverence Invites Revelation” Ensign Nov. 1991
Jesus Christ
We can see that not all activities we could engage in are equally important even though they may appropriately
be a part of a spiritually balanced family unity development program. Some concerns have higher priorities. We
remember the words of Nephi as he counseled: “And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ,
we prophesy of Christ … that our children may know to what source they look.” (2 Ne. 25:26.) What inner
strength would be in every person if he knew that the Master and His teachings were indeed his great source of
guidance, his great source of correct example, his great source of help! That is our prime goal in all our teaching
in the home.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Therefore I Was Taught” Aug. 1982
He rejoices in our genuine goodness and achievement, but any assessment of where we stand in relation to Him
tells us that we do not stand at all! We kneel!
Can we, even in the depths of disease, tell Him anything at all about suffering? In ways we cannot comprehend,
our sicknesses and infirmities were borne by Him even before these were borne by us. (See Alma 7:11–12; Matt.
8:17.) The very weight of our combined sins caused Him to descend below all. (See D&C 122:8.) We have never
been, nor will we be, in depths such as He has known. Thus His atonement made His empathy and His capacity
to succor us perfect, for which we can be everlastingly grateful as He tutors us in our trials. There was no ram in
the thicket at Calvary to spare Him, this Friend of Abraham and Isaac.
Neal A. Maxwell, “O, Divine Redeemer” Ensign Nov. 1981
Now, Christ’s life, His Church, and the Book of Mormon are but a few of the gifts of Christ that bless us, not only
at this Christmas season but throughout our lives.
So I ask you, what can we possibly give to the Lord this Christmastime? Considering all that He has done and is
doing for us, there is something that we might give Him in return.
Christ’s great gift to us was His life and sacrifice. Should that not then be our small gift to Him—our lives and
sacrifices, not only now but in the future? A few years ago my colleague Elder Boyd K. Packer said this: “I’m not
ashamed to say that … I want to be good. And I’ve found in my life that it has been critically important *to
establish this intention] between me and the Lord so that I knew that he knew which way I committed my
agency. I went before Him and said, ‘I’m not neutral, and you can do with me what you want. If you need my
vote, it’s there. I don’t care what you do with me, and you don’t have to take anything from me because I give it
to you—everything, all I own, all I am—,’ and that makes the difference.” (“To Those Who Teach in Troubled
Times,” address delivered at seminary and institute conference, Summer 1970, Salt Lake City.)
Jesus Christ
Yes, men and women who turn their lives over to God will discover that He can make a lot more out of their lives
than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift
their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour
out peace. Whoever will lose his life in the service of God will find eternal life.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Jesus Christ—Gifts and Expectations” Ensign Dec. 1988
Jesus Christ: Come Unto Me
The power of Christ to counter all troubles in all times—including the end of times. That is the safe harbor God
wants for us in personal or public days of despair. That is the message with which the Book of Mormon begins,
and that is the message with which it ends, calling all to “come unto Christ, and be perfected in him.”
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Safety for the Soul” Ensign Nov. 2009
And yet each person today also has an invitation to “come unto Christ” (Moro. 10:32), to become His sons and
daughters through a spiritual rebirth. In a different way, we may feel the print of the nails in His hands and feet
and thrust our hand into His side by experiencing the cleansing and refining power of the Atonement. The Savior
knows each of us intimately through His experience in the garden and on the cross. Alma states that He took
upon Himself our pains, afflictions, temptations, sicknesses, and infirmities, that He might know how to succor
us (see Alma 7:11–12). Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has pointed out that the
word succor in old French means literally “to run to.” He suggested that “even as *Christ] calls us to come to him
… , he is unfailingly running to help us.
Merrill J. Bateman, “Becoming a Disciple of Christ” Ensign April 2006
I wish to give assurance that there is a sure cure for heartache, disappointment, torment, anguish, and despair.
The Psalmist stated, ‘He Healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.’ The healing is a divine
miracle; the wounds are the common lot of all mankind…It seems that no one escapes the troubles, challenges,
and disappointments of this world.
James E. Faust, Ensign 2005
Jesus Christ: Come, Follow Me
Our “eyes of faith” will also be opened, and we shall know of a surety that he lives and that we shall live again, if
we believe and accept the divine invitation “Walk with me” (see Moses 6:34).
• Yes, we walk with him in the desert and feel his presence when we fast, pray, and withstand temptation.
• We walk with him to Jacob’s well and our hearts burn within us when we study the scriptures and drink
living waters.
• We walk with him to Galilee when we teach and live the truth.
• We walk with him in Gethsemane when we assume the burdens of others.
Jesus Christ – Journal
• We walk with him to Calvary when we take up our cross by denying ourselves of all ungodliness, and every
worldly lust (see JST, Matt. 16:26).
• We suffer with him on Golgotha when we sacrifice our time, talents, and means in building up the kingdom
of God.
• We rise with him to a newness of life when we seek a spiritual rebirth and strive to become his sons and
daughters.
And in the process of following in his footsteps (see 1 Pet. 2:21), we gain the personal conviction or infallible
proof that he lives, that he is the Son of the living God, and that he is our Redeemer.
Carlos E. Asay, “If a Man Die, Shall He Live Again?” Ensign May 1994
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith’s mission was unique, yet his humble prayer can be a helpful model for us. He began, as we must,
with faith in a loving God who can and wants to communicate with us and help us. That faith was rooted in
impressions which came to him as he pondered the words of God’s servants in the scriptures. We can and must
go often and carefully to the word of God. If we become casual in our study of the scriptures, we will become
casual in our prayers.
We may not cease to pray, but our prayers will become more repetitive, more mechanical, lacking real intent.
Our hearts cannot be drawn out to a God we do not know, and the scriptures and the words of living prophets
help us know Him. As we know Him better, we love Him more.
We must also serve Him to love Him. Joseph Smith did that, finally surrendering life itself in His service. Joseph
prayed with the intent to obey. That obedience always includes service to others. Service in God’s work allows
us to feel a part of what He feels and come to know Him.
Henry B. Eyring, “Prayer” Ensign Nov. 2001
I made this my rule: When the Lord commands, do it.
Joseph Smith
Journal
We renew our appeal for the keeping of individual histories and accounts of sacred experiences in our lives—
answered prayers, inspiration from the Lord, administrations in our behalf, a record of the special times and
events of our lives. From these records you can also appropriately draw as you relay faith-promoting stories in
your family circles and discussions. Stories of inspiration from our own lives and those of our forebearers as well
as stories from our scriptures and our history are powerful teaching tools. I promise you that if you will keep
your journals and records they will indeed be a source of great inspiration to you individually, your husband or
wife, your children, your grandchildren, and mothers throughout the generations.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Therefore I was Taught” Aug. 1982
On a number of occasions I have encouraged the Saints to keep personal journals and family records. I renew
that admonition. We may think there is little of interest or importance in what we personally say or do—but it is
Joy- Judgment
remarkable how many of our families, as we pass on down the line, are interested in all that we do and all that
we say. Each of us is important to those who are near and dear to us—and as our posterity read of our life’s
experiences, they, too, will come to know and love us. And in that glorious day when our families are together in
the eternities, we will already be acquainted.
Spencer W. Kimball, “We Need a Listening Ear” Ensign Nov. 1979
Joy
For heaven’s sake, forget your regrets. The many years you have lived have been filled both with success and
with experiences you might change if you could. But you can’t, so stop any self-inflicted sadness or despair.
When the Savior said, “Judge not,” he was speaking, in part, about your relationship with yourself (see Matt.
7:1). Live the repentant life happily. The scripture “Men are, that they might have joy” (2 Ne. 2:25) applies to
you right now.
Hugh W. Pinnock, “We Will Go with Our Young and with Our Old” Ensign Nov. 1979
The gospel is so very simple when we understand it properly. It is always right, it is always good, it is always
uplifting. Obedience to gospel principles brings forth joy and happiness. Disobedience has a day of reckoning
and will only bring forth heartache, misery, strife, and unhappiness.
L. Tom Perry, “And Why Call Ye Me, Lord, Lord, and Do Not the Things Which I Say?” Ensign Nov. 1984
Judgment
Do we judge one another? Do we criticize each other for individual choices, thinking we know better, when in
fact we rarely understand another’s unique circumstance or individual inspiration? Have we ever said, “She
works outside the home.” Or, “Her son didn’t serve a mission.” Or, “She’s too old for a calling.” Or, “She can’t—
she’s single.” Such judgments, and so many others like them, rob us of the good part, that pure love of Christ.
Bonnie D. Parkin, “Choosing Charity: That Good Part” Ensign Nov. 2003
Life is perfect for none of us. Rather than being judgmental and critical of each other, may we have the pure love
of Christ for our fellow travelers in this journey through life. May we recognize that each one is doing her best to
deal with the challenges which come her way, and may we strive to do our best to help out.
Thomas S. Monson, “Charity Never Faileth” Ensign Nov. 2010
The Lord will judge with the same measurements meted out by us. If we are harsh, we should not expect other
than harshness. If we are merciful with those who injure us, he will be merciful with us in our errors. If we are
unforgiving, he will leave us weltering in our own sins.
Spencer W. Kimball, Teachings of Presidents of the Church
The Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It is an
acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have become.
Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge to Become” Ensign Nov. 2000
We are seeking to build up and to establish righteousness in the hearts of the people, and I want to see you, as
members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, male and female, so industrious, so active in the
discharge of your duties as Latter-day Saints, so humble, so submissive to the will of the Lord that you will not
Leadership
have time to spend in magnifying the weaknesses, the follies and the faults of your neighbors and of your fellow
members of the Church. The Lord knows there is evil enough said in the world thoughtlessly; and without any
particular intent to do wrong, but merely through the weakness of men to talk, talk, talk and say nothing-let us
work and not talk.
Joseph F. Smith, “Conference Report” Oct. 1911
Leadership
So I would say to all of you here this morning, I hope you could develop a strong feeling in your own families—
and with you personally—about not wanting to become a weak link in the chain of your family and of your
ancestors. I encourage you also to be a strong link for your posterity. Do not be the weak link. Wouldn’t that be
a terrible thing to do? To think of that long chain and of all that work that needs to be done in the saving of souls
and of the precious work that needs to be done, wouldn’t it be sad if you were the one who was the weak link
that caused your descendants not to be able to be part of that strong linkage.
David B. Haight, “Be a Strong Link” Ensign Nov. 2000
This is God’s work, and God’s work will not be frustrated. But there is still much to be done before the Great
Jehovah can announce that the work is done. While we praise and honor those faithful Saints who have brought
us to this point of public prominence, we cannot afford, my brothers and sisters, to be comfortable or content.
We are all needed to finish the work that was begun by those pioneering Saints over 175 years ago and carried
out through the subsequent decades by faithful Saints of every generation. We need to believe as they believed.
We need to work as they worked. We need to serve as they served. And we need to overcome as they
overcame.
Of course, our challenges are different today, but they are no less demanding. Instead of angry mobs, we face
those who constantly try to defame. Instead of extreme exposure and hardship, we face alcohol and drug abuse,
pornography, all kinds of filth, sleaze, greed, dishonesty, and spiritual apathy. Instead of families being uprooted
and torn from their homes, we see the institution of the family, including the divine institution of marriage,
under attack as groups and individuals seek to define away the prominent and divine role of the family in
society.
This is not to suggest that our challenges today are more severe than the challenges faced by those who have
gone before us. They are just different. The Lord isn’t asking us to load up a handcart; He’s asking us to fortify
our faith. He isn’t asking us to walk across a continent; He’s asking us to walk across the street to visit our
neighbor. He isn’t asking us to give all of our worldly possessions to build a temple; He’s asking us to give of our
means and our time despite the pressures of modern living to continue to build temples and then to attend
regularly the temples already built. He isn’t asking us to die a martyr’s death; He’s asking us to live a disciple’s
life.
M. Russell Ballard, “The Truth of God Shall Go Forth” Ensign Nov. 2008
The person who obtains meekness and lowliness of heart and who enjoys the company of the Holy Ghost will
have no desire to offend or hurt others, nor will he feel affected by any offenses received from others. He will
treat his spouse and children with love and respect and will have good relationships with everyone he associates
with. In occupying positions of leadership in the Church, he will apply the same principles as he does in the
home, showing that there is no difference between the person he is when within the walls of his own home and
Leadership - Life
the person he is in his relationship with the members of the Church.
Francisco J. Vinas, “Applying the Simple and Plain Gospel Principles in the Family” Ensign April 2004
Average leaders used the carrot and the stick to motivate those around them. Great leaders communicate a
vision that captures the imagination and fires the hearts and minds of those around them. Average leaders
inspire people to punch a time clock. Great leaders inspire industry and passion.
You can get people to work by using threats or by promising rewards. But if you want to create a band of
brothers, you must inspire those who work with you and encourage them to give their all in a great cause.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Band of Brothers” Ensign Feb. 2008When we face seemingly insurmountable obstacles in
the fulfillment of righteous responsibilities, we should remember that when we are involved in the work of the
Lord, the obstacles before us are never as great as the power behind us. We should reach out and climb.
Handholds will only be found by hands that are outstretched. Footholds are only for feet that are on the move.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Reach Out and Climb!” New Era Aug. 1985
We have been commanded of the Lord to set our households in order. Apostles, Presidents of Stakes and
Bishops, have you done this with your own households? Have you also seen that the Saints have done the same?
Have you impressed upon the people under your charge the absolute necessity of purity if they desire the
blessing and protection of the Most High? Wolves never watched with greater cunning and more ravenous
hunger a flock of sheep and lambs than the people your wards and stakes are now being watched by those who
are ready to devour them. Are you awake to this danger, and do you take every precaution against it?
John Taylor, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: John Taylor
Life
Paul gave good counsel for all of us. Don’t worry about how inexperienced you are or think you are, but think
about what, with the Lord’s help, you can become.
Henry B. Eyring, “Preparation in the Priesthood: I Need Your Help” Ensign Oct. 2011
You may think you don’t have talents, but that is a false assumption, for we all have talents and gifts, every one
of us. The bounds of creativity extend far beyond the limits of a canvas or a sheet of paper and do not require a
brush, a pen, or the keys of a piano. Creation means bringing into existence something that did not exist
before—colorful gardens, harmonious homes, family memories, flowing laughter.
What you create doesn’t have to be perfect. So what if the eggs are greasy or the toast is burned? Don’t let fear
of failure discourage you. Don’t let the voice of critics paralyze you—whether that voice comes from the outside
or the inside.
If you still feel incapable of creating, start small. Try to see how many smiles you can create, write a letter of
appreciation, learn a new skill, identify a space and beautify it.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Happiness, Your Heritage” Ensign Oct. 2008
I return to the Prophet Joseph’s words: ‘Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end
thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and
keeping all the commandments of God.’ Let us walk these clearly defined paths. To help us do so we can follow
the shortest sermon in the world. It is found on a common traffic sign. It says, “Keep right.”
Thomas S. Monson, Oct. 1993
Life
You have the potential to become anything to which you set your mind. You have a mind and a body and a spirit.
With these three working together, you can walk the high road that leads to achievement and happiness. But
this will require effort and sacrifice and faith.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Stay on the High Road” Ensign May 2004
There are cycles of good and bad times, ups and downs, periods of joy and sadness, and times of plenty as well
as scarcity. When our lives turn in an unanticipated and undesirable direction, sometimes we experience stress
and anxiety. One of the challenges of this mortal experience is to not allow the stresses and strains of life to get
the better of us—to endure the varied seasons of life while remaining positive, even optimistic. Perhaps when
difficulties and challenges strike, we should have these hopeful words of Robert Browning etched in our minds:
“The best is yet to be” (“Rabbi Ben Ezra,” in Charles W. Eliot, ed., The Harvard Classics, 50 vols. *1909–10],
42:1103). We can’t predict all the struggles and storms in life, not even the ones just around the next corner, but
as persons of faith and hope, we know beyond the shadow of any doubt that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true
and the best is yet to come.
L. Tom Perry, “Let Him Do It with Simplicity” Ensign Nov. 2008
Are there so many fascinating, exciting things to do or so many challenges pressing down upon you that it is
hard to keep focused on that which is essential? When things of the world crowd in, all too often the wrong
things take highest priority. Then it is easy to forget the fundamental purpose of life. Satan has a powerful tool
to use against good people. It is distraction. He would have good people fill life with “good things” so there is no
room for the essential ones. Have you unconsciously been caught in that trap?
“Men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are
free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, …
for *the devil+ seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself” (2 Ne. 2:27).
Each of us needs to periodically check our bearings and confirm that we are on course. Sometime soon you may
benefit from taking this personal inventory:
What are my highest priorities to be accomplished while on earth?
How do I use my discretionary time?
Is some of it consistently applied to my highest priorities?
Is there anything I know I should not be doing? If so, I will repent and stop it now.
In a quiet moment write down your responses. Analyze them. Make any necessary adjustments.
Put first things first.
Richard G. Scott, “First Things First” Ensign May 2001
To live greatly, we must develop the capacity to face trouble with courage, disappointment with cheerfulness,
and triumph with humility.
Thomas S. Monson, “Yellow Canaries with Gray on Their Wings” Ensign Aug. 1987
Everything in the gospel teaches us that we can change if we need to, that we can be helped if we truly want it,
that we can be made whole, whatever the problems of the past.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “He Hath Filled the Hungry with Good Things” Ensign Nov. 1997
Often the lack of clear direction and goals can waste away our time and energy and contribute to imbalance in
our lives. A life that gets out of balance is much like a car tire that is out of balance. It will make the operation of
the car rough and unsafe. Tires in perfect balance can give a smooth and comfortable ride. So it is with life. The
ride through mortality can be smoother for us when we strive to stay in balance. Our main goal should be to
Life
seek “immortality and eternal life” (Moses 1:39). With this as our goal, why not eliminate from our lives the
things that clamor for and consume our thoughts, feelings, and energies without contributing to our reaching
that goal?
M. Russell Ballard, “Keeping Life’s Demands in Balance” Ensign May 1987
Our personal journey through life provides us with many special experiences that become building blocks of
faith and testimony. These experiences come to us in vastly different ways and at unpredictable times. They can
be powerful spiritual events or small enlightening moments. Some experiences will come as serious challenges
and heavy trials that test our ability to cope with them. No matter what the experience may be, each gives us a
chance for personal growth, greater wisdom, and, in many cases, service to others with more empathy and love.
As the Lord stated to the Prophet Joseph Smith in a reassuring way during one of his most significant trials at
Liberty Jail, “All these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good” (D&C 122:7).
Ronald L. Rasband, “Special Experiences” Ensign May 2008
Let us simplify our lives a little. Let us make the changes necessary to refocus our lives on the sublime beauty of
the simple, humble path of Christian discipleship—the path that leads always toward a life of meaning, gladness,
and peace.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Of Things That Matter Most” Ensign Nov. 2010
How can we receive the personal blessing of the Master’s divine and exalting influence in our own lives?
May I suggest five beginning, essential measures which will greatly clear the channel for a daily flow of “living
water” from the very source of the spring, even the Redeemer Himself.
First: A daily communion involving prayer.
Second: A daily selfless service to another.
Third: A daily striving for an increased obedience and perfection in our lives.
Fourth: A daily acknowledgment of His divinity.
Fifth: A daily study of the scriptures.
James E. Faust, “A Personal Relationship with the Savior” Ensign Nov. 1976
Each one of us will travel a different road during this life. Each progresses at a different rate. Temptations that
trouble your brother may not challenge you at all. Strengths that you possess may seem impossible to another.
Never look down on those who are less perfect than you. Don’t be upset because someone can’t sew as well as
you, can’t throw as well as you, can’t row or hoe as well as you.
We are all children of our Heavenly Father. And we are here with the same purpose: to learn to love Him with all
our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Virtue of Kindness” Ensign May 2005
Many people, including me, have difficulty finding the time for sufficient rest, exercise, and relaxation. We must
schedule time on our daily calendars for these activities if we are to enjoy a healthy and balanced life. Good
physical appearance enhances our dignity and self-respect.
M. Russell Ballard, “Keeping Life’s Demands in Balance” Ensign May 1987
Can we not appreciate that our very business in life is not to get ahead of others, but to get ahead of ourselves?
To break our own records, to outstrip our yesterdays by our todays, to bear our trials more beautifully than we
ever dreamed we could, to give as we have never given, to do our work with more force and a finer finish than
Life
ever—this is the true idea: to get ahead of ourselves.
Thomas S. Monson, “Yellow Canaries with Gray on Their Wings” Ensign Aug. 1987
If you want to be successful or outstanding in any field of endeavor, it is important that you determine while
young to be a great boy, and not wait to be a man to be a great man; and then have the courage and strength
and determination to discipline yourself, apply self-control and self-mastery.
N. Eldon Tanner, “Success Is Gauged by Self-Mastery” Ensign May 1975
Occasionally we find some who become so energetic in their Church service that their lives become unbalanced.
They start believing that the programs they administer are more important than the people they serve. They
complicate their service with needless frills and embellishments that occupy too much time, cost too much
money, and sap too much energy. They refuse to delegate or to allow others to grow in their respective
responsibilities.
As a result of their focusing too much time and energy on their Church service, eternal family relationships can
deteriorate. Employment performance can suffer. This is not healthy, spiritually or otherwise. While there may
be times when our Church callings require more intense effort and unusual focus, we need to strive to keep
things in proper balance. We should never allow our service to replace the attention needed by other important
priorities in our lives.
M. Russell Ballard, “O Be Wise” Ensign Nov. 2006
If life and its rushed pace and many stresses have made it difficult for you to feel like rejoicing, then perhaps
now is a good time to refocus on what matters most.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Of Things That Matter Most” Ensign Nov. 2010
True success in this life comes in consecrating our lives—that is, our time and choices—to God’s purposes. In so
doing, we permit Him to raise us to our highest destiny.
D. Todd Christofferson, “Reflections on a Consecrated Life” Ensign Nov. 2010
We become so caught up in the busyness of our lives. Were we to step back, however, and take a good look at
what we’re doing, we may find that we have immersed ourselves in the “thick of thin things.” In other words,
too often we spend most of our time taking care of the things which do not really matter much at all in the
grand scheme of things, neglecting those more important causes.
Thomas S. Monson, “What Have I Done for Someone Today?” Ensign Nov. 2009
We can choose to look at the bright side of things or at the dark. We can follow good and eschew evil thoughts.
We can be wrong-headed and wrong-hearted, or the reverse, as we ourselves determine. The world will be to
each one of us very much what we make it. The cheerful are its real possessors, for the world belongs to those
who enjoy it.
Reed Smoot, “Joy” Ensign Oct. 1972
Having food and raiment let us be therewith content—Why another farm, another herd of sheep, another bunch
of cattle, another ranch? Why another hotel, another café, another store, another shop? Why another plant,
another office, another service, another business? Why another of anything if one has that already which
provides the necessities and reasonable luxuries? Why continue to expand and increase holdings, especially
when those increased responsibilities draw one’s interests away from proper family and spiritual commitments,
and from those things to which the Lord would have us give precedence in our lives? Why must we always be
expanding to the point where our interests are divided and our attentions and thoughts are upon the things of
Life
the world? Certainly when one’s temporal possessions become great, it is very difficult for one to give proper
attention to the spiritual things.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Conference Report” Oct. 1953
The best thing to give to your enemy is forgiveness; to an opponent, tolerance; to a friend, your heart; to your
child, a good example; to a father, deference; to your mother, conduct that will make her proud of you; to
yourself, respect; to all men, charity.
Benjamin Franklin
We are often left to work out problems without the dictation or specific direction of the Spirit. That is part of the
experience we must have in mortality. Fortunately, we are never out of our Savior’s sight, and if our judgment
leads us to actions beyond the limits of what is permissible and if we are listening to the still, small voice, the
Lord will restrain us by the promptings of his Spirit.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Teaching and Learning by the Spirit” Ensign March 1977
The Church teaches that life here is probationary. It is man’s duty to become the master, not the slave of nature.
His appetites are to be controlled and used for the benefit of his health and the prolongation of his life-his
passions mastered and controlled for the happiness and blessing of others.
David O. McKay, “Teachings of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay”
The superior man is spiritual. He exemplifies simplicity. He abhors being conspicuous. He is dedicated to service.
Superior people are never bitter. Pessimism is the philosophy of vulgarity. The superior person is clean. His
fellowship is refreshing. He is above his pleasures…A superior man is gentle…Superior men are humble-minded,
or teachable, and they learn from passersby. The superior man is one with whom familiarity does not breed
contempt. The superior man lasts; he wears well.
Harold B. Lee, “The Teachings of Harold B. Lee”
Our beloved President Thomas S. Monson has given us his prophetic witness. He said: “I testify to you that our
promised blessings are beyond measure. Though the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down
upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and
sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments.”
President Monson continued: “My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as
bright as your faith.”
Russell M. Nelson, “Face the Future with Faith” Ensign May 2011
When the Lord used the expression “savor of men,” he was speaking of those who represent him. He was
referring to those who have repented, who have been washed clean in the waters of baptism, and who have
covenanted to take upon them his name and his cause. Moreover, he was speaking of those who would share by
covenant his priesthood power. He was speaking of you and me.
A world-renowned chemist told me that salt will not lose its savor with age. Savor is lost through mixture and
contamination. Similarly, priesthood power does not dissipate with age; it, too, is lost through mixture and
contamination.
Flavor and quality flee a man when he contaminates his mind with unclean thoughts, desecrates his mouth by
speaking less than the truth, and misapplies his strength in performing evil acts. King Benjamin cautioned,
“Watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of
Love
God” (Mosiah 4:30).
Carlos E. Asay, “Salt of the Earth: Savor of Men and Saviors of Men” Ensign May 1980
Do not pray for tasks equal to your abilities, but pray for abilities equal to your tasks. Then the performance of
your tasks will be no miracle, but you will be the miracle.
Thomas S. Monson, “Three Goals to Guide You” Ensign Nov. 2007
Love
Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don’t judge or categorize
someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting
someone’s differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or
resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn’t handle something the way we might have
hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of another’s weakness and being willing to forgive someone who
has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other.
Marvin J. Ashton, “The Tongue Can Be a Sharp Sword” Ensign May 1992
Nothing will bring the Spirit of the Lord into your meetings, your homes, and your personal associations more
quickly than showing kindness. “Charity … is kind” (1 Cor. 13:4). Kindness should be right at the top of
everyone’s list of things to do. Write it down every day: “Be kind.” Kindness comes in many different packages.
Be thoughtful to your neighbors. Be patient in a crowd. Be considerate of your children and your husband. Be
honest with your sisters. Trust them and they will trust you. Go out and bring them into this grand circle of
sisters we call Relief Society. As we increase our kindness, we add charity to our storehouse and we are
strengthened.
Elaine L. Jack, “Strengthened in Charity” Ensign Nov. 1996
Love is a potent healer. Realizing that, Satan would separate you from the power of the love of God, kindred,
and friends, who want to help. He would lead you to feel that the walls are pressing in around you and there is
no escape or relief. He wants you to believe you lack the capacity to help yourself and that no one else is really
interested. If he succeeds, you will be driven to further despair and heartache. His strategy is to have you think
you are not appreciated, loved, or wanted so that you in despair will turn to self-criticism, and in the extreme
even to despising yourself and feeling evil when you are not. Remember the wisdom of the Lord “is greater than
the cunning of the devil.” If you have such thoughts, break through those helpless feelings by reaching out in
love to another in need.
Richard G. Scott, “To Be Healed” Ensign May 1994
I am convinced that when we give unconditional love; when our interest is first in serving, building, edifying,
strengthening without thought of self; when we do not expect an automatic return for each act of kindness,
generosity, or sincere effort to help; when we are not concerned about what we will receive or what others will
say or whether our own burdens will be diminished, but selflessly seek to build another, the miracle of the
power of the gospel is released in our lives. When we permit the Lord to work through us to bless others, that
sacred experience releases power in our own lives, and miracles occur. Well did the Master say, “For inasmuch
as ye do it unto the least of these, ye do it unto me.” (D&C 42:38.)
Respect and love must be earned, and there is no better way to earn them than to lift another. Begin now with
your best effort. Reach out to another. You will feel the power of the Lord flow through you. Your own selfrespect will return, and you can love yourself again. Your life will be enriched and given purpose, and you will be
Love
given the power to make a difference in everything around you.
Richard G. Scott, “The Power to Make a Difference” Ensign Nov. 1983
In the first section of the Doctrine and Covenants we read that “the Lord shall come to recompense unto every
man according to his work, and measure to every man according to the measure which he has measured to his
fellow man.” (D&C 1:10.)
This principle, showing the manner by which God will judge us, puts a new light upon the commandment to love
our neighbors as ourselves, and should persuade us to take that law seriously.
Mark E. Peters, “Do Unto Others” Ensign May 1977
When we are filled with kindness, we are not judgmental. The Savior taught, “Judge not, and ye shall not be
judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.” He also taught that
“with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you
again.”
“But,” you ask, “what if people are rude?”
Love them.
“If they are obnoxious?”
Love them.
“But what if they offend? Surely I must do something then?”
Love them.
“Wayward?”
The answer is the same. Be kind. Love them.
Why? In the scriptures Jude taught, “And of some have compassion, making a difference.”
Who can tell what far-reaching impact we can have if we are only kind?
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Virtue of Kindness” Ensign May 2005
One cannot be merciful to others without receiving a harvest of mercy in return.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Blessed Are the Merciful” Ensign May 1990
Since the beginning of time, love has been the source of both the highest bliss and the heaviest burdens. At the
heart of misery from the days of Adam until today, you will find the love of wrong things. And at the heart of joy,
you will find the love of good things.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Love of God” Ensign Nov. 2009
Let us not complain at our friends and our neighbors, because they do not do what we want them to do. Rather
let us love them into doing the things that our Heavenly Father would have them do.
George Albert Smith, “Teachings of Presidents of the Church: George Albert Smith” 2010
Often we assume that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let
them know. Wrote William Shakespeare, “They do not love that do not show their love.” We will never regret
Love - Marriage
the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our
relationships with those who mean the most to us.
Thomas S. Monson, “Finding Joy in the Journey” Ensign Nov. 2008Give your child a compliment and a hug; say,
‘I love you’ more; always express your thanks. Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a
person to be loved. Friends move away, children grow up, loved ones pass on. It’s so easy to take others for
granted, until that day when they’re gone from our lives and we are left with feelings of ‘what if’ and ‘if only.’ …
Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey and share our love with friends and family. One day, each of
us will run out of tomorrows. Let us not put off what is most important.
Thomas S. Monson, “Love at Home—Counsel from Our Prophet” Ensign Aug. 2011
Restrain your tongues in criticism of others. It is easy to find fault. It is so much nobler to speak constructively.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign Nov. 1981
Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if he or she were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all
the care, kindness, and understanding you can muster, and do so with no thought of any reward. Your live will
never be the same again.
Og Mandino (1923-1996)
Marriage
We cannot overemphasize the value of temple marriage, the binding ties of the sealing ordinance, and the
standards of worthiness required of them. When parents keep the covenants they have made at the altar of the
temple, their children will be forever bound to them. President Brigham Young said:
“Let the father and mother, who are members of this Church and Kingdom, take a righteous course, and strive
with all their might never to do a wrong, but to do good all their lives; if they have one child or one hundred
children, if they conduct themselves towards them as they should, binding them to the Lord by their faith and
prayers, I care not where those children go, they are bound up to their parents by an everlasting tie, and no
power of earth or hell can separate them from their parents in eternity; they will return again to the fountain
from whence they sprang.” (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols.,
2:90–91.)
Boyd K. Packer, “Our Moral Environment” Ensign May 1992
The prophets have warned us that the home is the place to save society. A proper home, of course, is not
created automatically when a boy and girl fall in love and marry. It takes those same virtues that were taught in
pioneer homes—faith, courage, discipline, and dedication—to make a marriage successful.
L. Tom Perry, “The Strength of Our Heritage” Ensign July 2012
No sacrifice is too great to have the blessings of an eternal marriage. To most of us, a temple is easily accessible,
perhaps so conveniently that the blessing is taken too casually. As with other matters of faithfulness in gospel
living, being married the Lord’s way takes a willingness to deny yourself ungodliness—worldliness—and a
determination to do our Father’s will. By this act of faith, we show our love to God and our regard for a posterity
yet unborn. As our family is our greatest source of joy in this life, so it may well be in the eternity.
Ezra Taft Benson, “This Is a Day of Sacrifice” Ensign May 1979
Marriage
As fathers we should have love unbounded for the mothers of our children. We should accord to them the
gratitude, respect, and praise that they deserve. Husbands, to keep alive the spirit of romance in your marriage,
be considerate and kind in the tender intimacies of your married life. Let your thoughts and actions inspire
confidence and trust. Let your words be wholesome and your time together be uplifting. Let nothing in life take
priority over your wife—neither work, recreation, nor hobby.
Russell M. Nelson, “Our Sacred Duty to Honor Women” Ensign May 1999
Peter urged us to give honor unto our wives. (See 1 Pet. 3:7.) It seems to me we should be even more courteous
to our wives and mothers, our sisters and our daughters, than we are to others. When Paul said that a man who
did not provide for his own and those of his own household was “worse than an infidel” (1 Tim. 5:8), I like to
think of providing for our own as including providing them with affectional security as well as economic security.
When the Lord told us in this dispensation that “women have claim on their husbands for their maintenance”
(D&C 83:2), I like to think of maintenance as including our obligation to maintain loving affection and to provide
consideration and thoughtfulness as well as food.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Fundamental Principles to Ponder and Live” Ensign Nov. 1978
If every husband and every wife would constantly do whatever might be possible to ensure the comfort and
happiness of his or her companion, there would be very little, if any, divorce. Argument would never be heard.
Accusations would never be leveled. Angry explosions would not occur. Rather, love and concern would replace
abuse and meanness.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Women in Our Lives” Ensign Nov. 2004
Meanwhile, mortal misunderstandings can make mischief in a marriage. In fact, each marriage starts with two
built-in handicaps. It involves two imperfect people. Happiness can come to them only through their earnest
effort. Just as harmony comes from an orchestra only when its members make a concerted effort, so harmony in
marriage also requires a concerted effort. That effort will succeed if each partner will minimize personal
demands and maximize actions of loving selflessness.
Russell M. Nelson, “Celestial Marriage” Ensign Nov. 2008
A man can have no greater incentive, no greater hope, no greater strength than to know his mother, his
sweetheart, his wife, or his daughter has confidence in him and loves him. And men should strive every day to
live worthy of that love and confidence.
N. Eldon Tanner, “No Greater Honor: The Woman’s Role” Ensign Jan. 1974
As a husband, he would live with respect for his wife, standing side by side with her, never belittling her nor
demeaning her, but rather encouraging her in the continued development of her talents and in the church
activities which are available to her. He would regard her as the greatest treasure of his life, one with whom he
can share his concerns, his innermost thoughts, his ambitions and hopes. There would never be in that home
any “unrighteous dominion” of husband over wife (see D&C 121:37, 39), no assertion of superiority, no assertion
of authority, but rather an expression in living which says that these two are equally yoked.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “To Please Our Heavenly Father” Ensign May 1985
In conclusion, I speak briefly to those contemplating marriage. The best way to avoid divorce from an unfaithful,
abusive, or unsupportive spouse is to avoid marriage to such a person. If you wish to marry well, inquire well.
Associations through “hanging out” or exchanging information on the Internet are not a sufficient basis for
marriage. There should be dating, followed by careful and thoughtful and thorough courtship. There should be
ample opportunities to experience the prospective spouse’s behavior in a variety of circumstances. Fiancés
should learn everything they can about the families with whom they will soon be joined in marriage. In all of
Marriage
this, we should realize that a good marriage does not require a perfect man or a perfect woman. It only requires
a man and a woman committed to strive together toward perfection.
President Spencer W. Kimball taught: “Two individuals approaching the marriage altar must realize that to attain
the happy marriage which they hope for they must know that marriage … means sacrifice, sharing, and even a
reduction of some personal liberties. It means long, hard economizing. It means children who bring with them
financial burdens, service burdens, care and worry burdens; but also it means the deepest and sweetest
emotions of all.”
Dallin H. Oaks, “Divorce” Ensign May 2007
May I quickly suggest four cornerstones upon which to build that house? There are others, but I choose to
emphasize these. They come of the gospel of Jesus Christ. They are not difficult to understand nor difficult to
follow. They are well within your reach with a little effort; and I do not hesitate to promise you that if you will
establish the home of which you dream on these foundation stones, the perils of your married life will be
diminished, your love for one another will strengthen through the years, you will bless the lives of your children
and of your children’s children, and you will know happiness in this life and joy eternal.
The first of these I call Respect for One Another, the kind of respect that regards one’s companion as the most
precious friend on earth and not as a possession or a chattel to be forced or compelled to suit one’s selfish
whims.
The second thing I mention is a very simple thing, but I regard it as a very basic thing. For want of a better
phrase I call it The Soft Answer.
I turn now to the third cornerstone on which to establish a stable and happy home. I title it Honesty with God
and with One Another.
Now in conclusion, as the fourth cornerstone I should like to suggest Family Prayer.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Except the Lord Build the House…” Ensign June 1971
The formula is simple.
First there must be the proper approach toward marriage. A person must try to select a spouse who is as nearly
perfect as possible in all the matters which are of importance to him.
Second, there must be a great unselfishness. All should be done for the good of the family.
Third, there must be continued courting and expressions of affection, kindness, and consideration to keep love
alive and growing.
Fourth, the commandments of the Lord, as defined in the gospel of Jesus Christ, must be lived completely.
With these ingredients properly mixed and continually kept functioning, it is quite impossible for unhappiness to
come, misunderstandings to continue, or breaks to occur.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Oneness in Marriage” Ensign March 1977
Marriage for time and for eternity is the ‘straight gate and the narrow way (spoken of in the scriptures) that
leadeth unto exaltation and continuation of the lives, and few there be that find it,’ but ‘broad is the gate, and
wide the way that leadeth to the deaths; and many there are that go in thereat.’ (D&C 132:22, 25) If Satan and
his hosts can persuade you to take the broad highway of worldly marriage that ends with death, he has defeated
Millennium
you in your opportunity for the highest degree of eternal happiness through marriage and increase throughout
eternity. It should now be clear to your reasoning with the Lord declared that in order to obtain the highest
degree in the Celestial glory, a person must enter into the new and everlasting covenant of marriage. If he does
not, he cannot obtain it.
Harold B. Lee, “Decisions for Successful Living” 1973
Millennium
SIGNS TO PRECEDE COMING – Joseph Fielding Smith
A list of some of the events preceding or commencing during the second coming are herewith presented;
1. Gospel must be preached to all nations. (D&C 58;64, 84:62)
2. Gospel will be taken from Gentiles and given to Jews (and to the Ten Tribes). (D&C sec. 45)
3. Indians must be taught the gospel, be converted and begin to become white and delightsome people. (
2 Nephi 30:3-8)
4. Jews will be gathered and restored to Jerusalem; there they will build a temple. (2 Nephi 25: 16-18, 30:7,
45:24-25, 133:13)
5. New Jerusalem must be built in Jackson County. (D&C 84:2-5)
6. Temple must be erected for appearance of Christ. (D&C 57:3)
7. People who go back to New Jerusalem must be able to live the celestial law of United Order. (D&C 78:57)
8. Grand Council will be held at Adam-ondi-Ahman. (D&C sec. 27, sec. 116)
9. Ten Tribes must come to New Jerusalem. (D&C 133:21-34)
10. Peace will be taken from the earth and not return until Christ brings it. (D&C1:35, 99:5)
11. War will be poured out on all nations. Only Zion or pure in heart will escape. (D&C 87)
12. There will be wars in America, earthquakes, famine and pestilence. (D&C 45:6-8, sec. 87)
13. Wars will be in and around Jerusalem at the time Christ comes. (Zech. 14)
14. Plagues of flies causing maggots will eat the flesh of the inhabitants of the earth and will cause their
eyes to fall from their sockets. (D&C 29:18-20)
15. Overflowing scourge will fill the earth. A desolation sickness will destroy the wicked. (D&C 5:19-20,
45:31, 84:95-97, 133:26-34)
16. A great hailstorm will destroy crops of the earth. (D&C 29:16)
17. Travel will not be safe on the oceans because the waters will be troubled. (D&C 61:14-17)
18. Famine will be the inevitable result of these things. Will come in this generation. (D&C 87:6)
19. Waters of the Dead Sea will be healed (or sweetened). (Zech. 14:8, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph
Smith, p. 286)
20. The tongue of the Egyptian Sea will be destroyed so the Jews can pass over dryshod. (Isaiah 11:15,
chapter 11)
21. Fall of the Great and Abominable Church will make way for Christ’s reign. (Rev. 13-18, 1 Nephi 14, D&C
29:21)
22. The sun will be darkened and the moon will turn to blood. (D&C 29:14)
23. Possible destruction of New York City, Albany, Boston, and Cincinnati is predicted. (D&C 61:30-31,
84:114)
24. The Record of John will be revealed. (1 Nephi 14:18-28, Ether 4:16)
Mission
25. The earth will be renewed. (D&C sec. 88, 133, Isaiah 13:13)
26. Locusts like scorpions, after opening of seventh seal and before Christ’s millennial reign, will plague
people. (Rev. 9, D&C 77:13)
27. Two prophets will die on streets of Jerusalem, remain for three days, and then will be resurrected. (Rev.
11, D&C 77:15)
28. Battle of Gog and Magog will be fought. (Ezek. 38-39, Sech. 11-13, Rev. 16: 14-21)
Mission
All that I now hold dear in life began to mature in the mission field. Had I not been encouraged to be a
missionary, I would not have the eternal companion or precious family I dearly love. I am confident that I would
not have had the exceptional professional opportunities that stretched my every capacity. I am certain that I
would not have received the sacred callings with opportunities to serve for which I will be eternally grateful. My
life has been richly blessed beyond measure because I served a mission.
Richard G. Scott, “Now Is the Time to Serve a Mission!” Ensign May 2006
God is preparing people to receive your testimony of restored truth. He requires your faith and then your action
to share fearlessly what has become so precious to you and those you love.
Henry B. Eyring, “Sharing the Gospel Heart to Heart” Ensign Sept. 2012
Prepare now to go on a mission. It will not be a burden. It will not be a waste of time. It will be a great
opportunity and a great challenge. It will do something for you that nothing else will do for you. It will sharpen
your skills. It will train you in leadership. It will bring testimony and conviction into your heart. You will bless the
lives of others as you bless your own. It will bring you nearer to God and to His Divine Son as you bear witness
and testimony of Him. Your knowledge of the gospel will strengthen and deepen. Your love for your fellowmen
will increase. Your fears will fade as you stand boldly in testimony of the truth.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley” p. 365
We need not fear for the future. This is the Lord’s work; it is His kingdom; and He governs its affairs as He
chooses. The keys, having been committed to man on earth, are now vested in those of His own choosing.
And as the Lord lives, and as Christ is true, and as truth will prevail, I testify that this work shall roll forward until
it fills the whole earth, and until the knowledge of God covers the earth as the waters cover the sea.
Bruce R. McConkie, “The Keys of the Kingdom” Ensign April 1983
You live in a time of wars and revolutions. And yet, as President Brigham You said, The world will be
revolutionized by the preaching of the gospel and the power of the priesthood. And this work we are called to
do. Women and men, our keeping the commandments is the most revolutionary development in the world,
though it is often less noticed and less glamorous. Do not be discouraged, in the midst of the sweep of events of
our time, if your life sometimes seems so small. Phillips Brooks observed, “Greatness, after all, in spite of its
name, appears to be not so much a certain size as a certain quality in human lives.”
Spencer W. Kimball, “The Savior: The Center of Our Lives” New Era April 1980
The contrast between the motive to help and the motive to use can even be seen in some Church service. A
missionary with a motive to use ‘his’ mission for personal growth and ‘his’ baptisms to gain recognition for ‘his’
accomplishments are a phony and a failure. His motives and attitudes are transparent. Companions, leaders, and
Mission
investigators will soon recognize and resent a missionary who sees them as mere objects to be used for his
benefit. A missionary who sees himself (or herself) as a servant of the Lord, an instrument in His hands to do his
work (Alma 17:9), has the motive to help others. That attitude and motive is transparent also, and its fruits are
trust and love from all with whom the missionary associates.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Pure in Heart” p. 30
Be we reminded that the gathering of Israel is not the ultimate endpoint. It is but the beginning. The true
endpoint is eternal life. It is that God’s children, in a covenant relationship with Him either by lineage or by
adoption, will be able to dwell with Him and their families forever. That is God’s glory—eternal life for His
children!
Russell M. Nelson, “Prophets and Apostles Speak at MTC Mission Presidents’ Seminar”, Church News June
2012
The most important thing in this life is a testimony of the truth, and there is no place on earth where you can
have the opportunity to get a testimony like the mission field. I know—I have been there time and time again.
Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign Nov. 1984
If you serve a mission faithfully and well, you will be a better husband, you will be a better father, you will be a
better student, a better worker in your chosen vocation. Love is of the essence of this missionary work.
Selflessness is of its very nature. Self-discipline is its requirement. Prayer opens its reservoir of power.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley” p. 356
One of the greatest secrets of missionary work is work. If a missionary works, he will get the Spirit; if he gets the
Spirit, he will teach by the Spirit; and if he teaches by the Spirit, he will touch the hearts of the people; and he
will be happy. There will be no homesickness, no worrying about families, for all time and talents and interests
are centered on the work of the ministry. That’s the secret—work, work, work. There is no satisfactory
substitute, especially in missionary work.
Ezra Taft Benson
For several years we have given three rules to our missionaries, as a means to success; the first rule is Work, the
second Hard Work, and the third Persistent, Prayerful, Honest Work. We bear testimony that success has come
to everyone who has followed these three rules. We have never had an elder go into the field, who has
complied therewith, but who has come home with his heart full of joy, with a testimony that God lives, and the
messengers of our Father have been sent before his face to guide his footsteps in the way of the honest in heart,
and in the way of friends.
German E. Ellsworh, “Conference Report” April 1907
There is nothing that builds solid faith for the present and the future like serving a mission. How grateful I am for
the mission which I was on more than sixty years ago. I think I was a fairly faithful young man in this Church, but
going on a mission did something for me. I don’t know how to define it, but it did something that has value
every day of my life. I would like to see every boy have the opportunity of a mission.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley” p. 365
Mission - Morality
17 Scriptures to Identify Christ’s True Church
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
Christ organized the Church. Eph. 4:11-14
The true church must bear the name of Jesus Christ. Eph. 5:23
The true church must have the same organization as Christ’s church. Eph. 2:19-20
The true church must have the same organization as Christ’s church. Eph. 4:11-14
The true church must claim divine authority. Heb. 5:4-10
The true church must have no paid ministry. Isaiah 45:13, 1 Peter 5:2
The true church must baptize by immersion. Matt. 3:13-16
The true church must bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. Acts 8:14-17
The true church must practice divine healing. Mark 3:14-15
The true church must teach that God and Jesus Christ are separate and distinct individuals. John 17:11,
John 20:17
The true church must teach that God and Jesus Christ have bodies of flesh and bone. Luke 24:36-39, Acts
1:9-11
The officers must be called by God. Heb. 5:4, Exodus 28:1, Exodus 40:13-16
The true church must claim revelation from God. Amos 3:7
The true church must be a missionary church. Matt. 28:19-20
The true church must be a restored church. Matt. 28:19-20
The true church must practice baptism for the dead. Cor. 15:16, 29
By their fruits ye shall know them. Matt. 7:20
Why are these things important? Heb. 13:8, Eph. 4:5
Morality
Yes, the voices and enticements of the world make good seem evil and evil, good. The false attractions to
engage in immorality, to view that which is forbidden on your home video, to seek unbounded pleasure as if
God did not exist, are, in reality, the yawning pit of hell, set there by the one who will try to bind you with his
awful chains.
William Grant Bangerter, “Coming Through the Mists” Ensign April 1984
To the young men who are here tonight I wish to say that the Lord has made it clear, and the experience of
centuries has confirmed it, that happiness lies not in immorality, but rather in abstinence. The voice of the
Church to which you belong is a voice pleading for virtue. It is a voice pleading for strength to abstain from that
which is evil. It is a voice declaring that sexual transgression is sin. It is contrary to the will of the Lord. It is
contrary to the teachings of the Church. It is contrary to the happiness and well-being of those who indulge in it.
You should recognize, you must recognize, that both experience and divine wisdom dictate virtue and moral
cleanliness as the way that leads to strength of character, peace in the heart, and happiness in life.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Reverence and Morality” Ensign May 1987
You young men are the protectors of your sisters and of the girls with whom you associate. Your duty to them
and to yourself is to be morally clean and sexually pure before the Lord. Movies and television scenes often
imply moral cleanliness is old fashioned and not in tune with this modern world, but commandments cut into
the stone tablets by the finger of God have not changed. The Lord declared, “Thou shalt not … commit adultery,”
and later added, “nor do anything like unto it.” (D&C 59:6.) The commandments are clear and understandable
Morality - Mothers
and uncompromising.
Elder David B. Haight, “A Time for Preparation” Ensign Nov. 1991
While we are free to choose, once we have made those choices, we are tied to the consequences of those
choices.
Russell M. Nelson, “Addiction or Freedom” Ensign Nov. 1988
Again Paul’s counsel to Timothy, “Keep thyself pure” (1 Tim. 5:22).
Those are simple words. But they are ever so important. Paul is saying, in effect, stay away from those things
which will tear you down and destroy you spiritually. Stay away from television shows which lead to unclean
thoughts and unclean language. Stay away from videos which will lead to evil thoughts. They won’t help you.
They will only hurt you. Stay away from books and magazines which are sleazy and filthy in what they say and
portray. Keep thyself pure.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Converts and Young Men” Ensign May 1997
Mothers
Let every mother realize that she has no greater blessing than the children which have come to her as a gift from
the Almighty; that she has no greater mission than to rear them in light and truth, in understanding and love;
that she will have no greater happiness than to see them grow into young men and women who respect
principles of virtue, who walk free from the stain of immorality and from the shame of delinquency.
I remind mothers everywhere of the sanctity of your calling. No other can adequately take your place. No
responsibility is greater, no obligation more binding than that you rear in love and peace and integrity those
whom you have brought into the world.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Bring Up a Child in the Way He Should Go” Ensign Nov. 1993
The true strength of any nation, society of family lies in those qualities of character that have been acquired for
the most part by children taught in the quiet, simple everyday manner of mothers.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Motherhood” 1995
In this age when more and more women are turning to daily work, how tremendous it is, once in a while, to stop
and recognize that the greatest service that any woman will ever perform will be in nurturing, teaching, lifting,
encouraging, and rearing her children in righteousness and truth. There is no other thing that will compare with
that regardless of what she does.
I hope that the women of the Church will not slight their greatest responsibility in favor of a lesser responsibility.
To the mothers of this church, every mother who is here this day, I want to say that, as the years pass, you will
become increasingly grateful for that which you did in molding the lives of your children in the direction of
righteousness and goodness and integrity and faith.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Motherhood” Heber Regional Conference May 1995
To the mothers of this Church, every mother who is here today, I want to say that as the years pass, you will
become increasingly grateful for that which you did in molding the lives of your children in the direction of
righteousness and goodness, integrity and faith. That is most likely to happen if you can spend adequate time
with them.
Mothers
For you who are single parents, I say that many hands stand ready to help you. The Lord is not unmindful of you.
Neither is His Church.
May He bless you, my beloved sisters who find yourselves in the situation of single parenthood. May you have
health, strength, vitality to carry the heavy burden that is yours. May you have loving friends and associates to
bear you up in your times of trial. You know the power of prayer as perhaps few others do. Many of you spend
much time on your knees speaking with your Father in Heaven, with tears running down your cheeks. Please
know that we also pray for you.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Women of the Church” Ensign Nov. 1996
Sisters, guard your children. They live in a world of evil. The forces are all about them. I am proud of so many of
your sons and daughters who are living good lives. But I am deeply concerned about many others who are
gradually taking on the ways of the world. Nothing is more precious to you as mothers, absolutely nothing. Your
children are the most valuable thing you will have in time or all eternity. You will be fortunate indeed if, as you
grow old and look at those you brought into the world, you find in them uprightness of life, virtue in living, and
integrity in their behavior.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Walking in the Light of the Lord” Ensign Nov. 1998
Like the woman who anonymously, meekly, perhaps even with hesitation and some embarrassment, fought her
way through the crowd just to touch the hem of the Master’s garment, so Christ will say to the women who
worry and wonder and sometimes weep over their responsibility as mothers, “Daughter, be of good comfort;
thy faith hath made thee whole.” And it will make your children whole as well.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Because She Is a Mother” Ensign May 1997
Never forget that Satan stands at the very elbow of each of your sons and daughters, he awaits outside the
threshold of every home, every minute of the day, waiting for, seeking for the slightest weakness in the armor of
righteousness with which you have clad your loved ones, with which you have surrounded your home; so that
against that weakness he may bring to bear every vile, every stratagem, every base feeling and appeal—and he
has every evil at his command.
Mothers in Israel, in that home which it is in your power and which it is your duty to build, that home of bodily
well-being, that home of love, and prayer and precept and example, of harmony, of seemliness and respect, and
education and culture, bring into that home such an understanding and reverence for chastity as shall preserve
your children.
J. Reuben Clark Jr., Relief Society Magazine Dec. 1952
I say to you mothers, if you ever have sons or daughters who amount to what they should in the world, it will be
in no small degree due to the fact that your children have a mother who spends many nights on her knees in
prayer, praying God that her son, her daughter, will not fail. I remember at the foolish years of my teenage life,
my mother came to me with an intuitive impression warning which I brushed off as foolish teenagers do. “Oh,
Mother, that’s silly,” I said, then within only a month, to stand face-to-face with the temptation about which
Mother had warned. I never had the courage to go back and tell her how right she was, but I was on guard
because someone warned—my mother.
Harold B. Lee, Relief Society Magazine Feb. 1964
Motherhood is a holy calling, a sacred dedication for carrying out the Lord’s work, a consecration and devotion
to the rearing and fostering, the nurturing of body, mind, and spirit of those who kept their first estate and who
came to this earth for their second estate to learn and be tested and to work toward godhood.
Mothers
Mothers have a sacred role. They are partners with God, as well as with their own husbands, first in giving birth
to the Lord’s spirit children and then in rearing those children so they will serve the Lord and keep his
commandments. Could there be a more sacred trust than to be a trustee for honorable, well-born, welldeveloped children?
Spencer W. Kimball, “The Blessings and Responsibilities of Womanhood” Ensign March 1976
Mothers in Zion, your God-given roles are so vital to your own exaltation and to the salvation and exaltation of
your family. A child needs a mother more than all the things money can buy. Spending time with your children is
the greatest gift of all.
With love in my heart for the mothers in Zion, I would like to suggest ten specific ways our mothers may spend
effective time with their children.
-Be at the crossroads
-Be a real friend
-Read to your children
-Pray with your children
-Have weekly home evenings
-Be together at mealtimes
-Read scriptures daily
-Do things as a family
-Teach your children
-Truly love your children
Ezra Taft Benson, “Fireside for Parents” Feb. 1987
We depend on you sisters so much and look to you for encouragement. You have great spirituality and
testimony and faith. If we of the priesthood were honest in our praise, we would give credit where credit is due
for the spirituality in our families that comes from you lovely sisters who encourage us to the right thing and to
fulfill our responsibilities in the priesthood.
Howard W. Hunter, “Australia Area Conference” Nov. 1979
May the Lord bless you, my beloved sisters. You are the guardians of the hearth. You are the bearers of the
children. You are they who nurture them and establish within them the habits of their lives. No other work
reaches so close to divinity as does the nurturing of the sons and daughters of God. May you be strengthened
for the challenges of the day. May you be endowed with wisdom beyond your own in dealing with the problems
you constantly face. May your prayers and your pleadings be answered with blessings upon your heads and
upon the heads of your loved ones. We leave with you our love and our blessing, that your lives may be filled
with peace and gladness.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Stand Strong against the Wiles of the World” Ensign Nov. 1995
When I think of our mothers, the mothers of our children, and realize that under the inspiration of the gospel
they live virtuous, pure honorable lives, true to their husbands, true to their children, true to their convictions of
the gospel, oh, how my soul goes out in pure love for them how noble and how God-given, how choice, how
desirable and how indispensable they are to the accomplishment of God’s purposes and the fulfillment of his
decrees! My brethren, can you mistreat your wives, the mothers of your children? Can you help treating them
with love and kindness? Can you help trying to make their lives as comfortable and happy as possible, lightening
their burdens to the utmost of your ability, making life pleasant for them and for their children in their homes?
How can you help it? How can anyone help feeling an intense interest in the mother of his children and also in
Mothers
his children? If we possess the Spirit of God, we cannot do otherwise.
Joseph F. Smith, “Gospel Doctrine” p. 284
Without the wonderful work of the women I realize that the Church would have been a failure. The mother in
the family far more than the father, is the one who instills in the hearts of the children, a testimony and a love
for the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our fathers and mothers came here in early days for the one and only thing—to
serve the Lord, and to labor for the salvation of humanity; and wherever you find a woman who is devoted to
this work, almost without exception you will find that her children are devoted to it.
She shapes their lives more than the father, because he is away much more; his associations in the world take
him away from the family circle; so that to our mothers we owe everything. I, of course, owe everything to my
mother, because my father died when I was only nine days of age; and the marvelous teachings, the faith, the
integrity of my mother have been an inspiration to me.
Heber J. Grant, “Gospel Standards” p. 151
Tonight as I look at this great audience of men, more than 5,000, I realize the strength of the holy Priesthood;
knowing that we are the representatives of divinity and that the men in this room have the power that comes
from God to represent Him upon the earth. I know that, and at the same time I realize that there is a force in the
Latter-day Saint homes were our wives and mothers and daughters are, and when it comes to faith in God and
prayer it is equal to anything that the men may be able to muster. I fear that sometimes we neglect them. I
wonder tonight if the men who are here, who have come to this great conference to worship God, who are here
to be instructed under the influence of the spirit of the Lord—have left homes, left households in which there is
a family of children besides the wife. I am asking myself the question, “How many of you who are here tonight,
before you came here to wait upon the Lord, put your arms around the woman who stood by your side, the
mother of your children, and told her that you were grateful that she would keep the home-fires burning when
you couldn’t be there?” I wonder if we appreciate the daughters of God as He appreciates them. Do we treasure
their virtues and their faith and their devotion and their motherhood as our Heavenly Father does?
George Albert Smith, “Conference Report” April 1943
Motherhood is just another name for sacrifice. From the moment the wee, helpless babe is laid on the pillow
beside her, Mother daily, hourly, gives of her life to her loved one. It has been aptly said that babes draw
strength at first from her bosom but always from her heart. All through the years of babyhood, childhood, and
youth, aye, even after her girls themselves become mothers and her sons, fathers, she tenderly, lovingly
sacrifices for them her time, her comfort, her pleasures, her needed rest and recreation, and, if necessary,
health and life itself! No language can express the power and beauty and heroism of a mother’s love.
To each mother’s son or daughter, we would say: you need no suggestions on how to make your mother happy
on Mother’s Day as on every day in the year. If you order a white carnation to be given her, she will be pleased;
if you tell her in a letter of your appreciation and love, she will shed tears of happiness; but if you keep the
spotless character and purity of soul she has given you, she will rejoice as the most blessed of mothers.
David O. McKay, “Gospel Ideas” p.456-7
Matthew 25:40 - And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done
it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
There is nothing in the teachings of the gospel which declares that men are superior to women. The Lord has
given unto men the power of priesthood and sent them forth to labor in his service. A woman’s calling is in a
different direction. The most noble, exalting calling of all is that which has been given to women as the mothers
Music - Obedience
of me. Women do not hold the priesthood, but if they are faithful and true, they will become priestesses and
queens in the kingdom of God, and that implies that they will be given authority.
Joseph Fielding Smith, “Doctrines of Salvation”
Music
I have noticed that an increasing number of our leaders and members do not sing the congregational songs.
Perhaps they do not know them or there are not enough hymnbooks. We should sing the songs of Zion—they
are an essential part of our worship. We must not neglect the hymns nor the exalted anthems of the
Restoration. Read the First Presidency’s introduction in the hymnbook. The Lord said, “My soul delighteth in the
song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing
upon their heads.” (D&C 25:12.) Do not let our sacred music slip away from us, nor allow secular music to
replace it.
Boyd K. Packer, “Reverence Invites Revelation” Ensign Nov. 1991
It is sad to me to see in the congregations many people standing silent when they could be singing “their hearts
out.” I wonder constantly if they would sing happily today if for twelve years they could only move their lips
through thousands of songs and could make no sound? I wonder if the silent ones can even imagine what it is
like to be unable to join fellow singers in praise to their Lord in music?
If the conductor sings also, it will encourage the congregation and help them remember the words…In every
beat of the baton should be the pleading to the Saints of God: Sing. Sing. Sing from your hearts.
Spencer W. Kimball, “The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball,” edited by Edward L. Kimball p.518-519
Obedience
The Lord’s purposes are often accomplished as we pay heed to the guidance of the Spirit. I believe that the more
we act upon the inspiration and impressions which come to us, the more the Lord will entrust to us His errands.
Thomas S. Monson, "Consider the Blessings" Ensign Nov. 2012
Our challenge is to choose the right, to declare that we are friends of our Heavenly Father. The covenant that we
made through baptism is a contract to become a friend of God.
Charles Didier, "Friend or Foe," Ensign Nov. 1983
“Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth
thee.” (Ex. 20:12.) As a boy I came to believe in that divine commandment.
I think it is such a great commandment from the Lord. If it were only observed more widely, there would be far
less misery in the homes of the people. Instead of backbiting, accusation, argument, there would be
appreciation and respect and quiet love.
Author Unknown
There is no need for you or me in this enlightened age, when the fulness of the gospel has been restored, to sail
uncharted seas or travel unmarked roads in search of the fountain of truth. For a loving Heavenly Father has
plotted our course and provided an unfailing map—obedience!
Obedience
His revealed word vividly describes the blessings that obedience brings and the inevitable heartache and despair
that accompany the traveler who detours along the forbidden pathways of sin and error.
Thomas S. Monson, “Finding Strength through Obedience” Ensign Oct. 2009
We are a covenant people. I have had the feeling that if we could just encourage our people to live by three or
four covenants everything else would take care of itself.
The first of these is the covenant of the sacrament, in which we take upon ourselves the name of the Savior and
agree to keep His commandments with the promise in His covenant that He will bless us with His spirit.
Second, the covenant of tithing. The promise…is that He will stay the destroyer and open the windows of heaven
and pour down blessings that there will not be room enough to receive them.
Three, the covenant of the temple: Sacrifice, the willingness to sacrifice for this the Lord’s work—and inherent in
that law of sacrifice is the very essence of the Atonement…Consecration, which is associated with it, a
willingness to give everything, if need be, to help in the on-rolling of this great work. And a covenant of love and
loyalty one to another in the bonds of marriage, fidelity, chastity, morality. If our people could only learn to live
by these covenants, everything else would take care of itself, I am satisfied.
If our people could only learn to live by these covenants, everything else would take care of itself, I am satisfies.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley” 1997
My beloved brothers and sisters, to those of you who have been blessed by the gospel for many years because
you were fortunate enough to find it early, to those of you who have come to the gospel by stages and phases
later, and to those of you—members and not yet members—who may still be hanging back, to each of you, one
and all, I testify of the renewing power of God’s love and the miracle of His grace. His concern is for the faith at
which you finally arrive, not the hour of the day in which you got there.
So if you have made covenants, keep them. If you haven’t made them, make them. If you have made them and
broken them, repent and repair them. It is never too late so long as the Master of the vineyard says there is
time. Please listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit telling you right now, this very moment, that you should
accept the atoning gift of the Lord Jesus Christ and enjoy the fellowship of His labor. Don’t delay. It’s getting late.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Laborers in the Vineyard” Ensign May 2012
The Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It is an
acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have become.
Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge to Become” Ensign Nov. 2000
Obedience is a powerful spiritual medicine. It comes close to being a cure-all.
Boyd K. Packer, “The Balm of Gilead” Ensign Nov. 1977
If we don’t want temptation to follow us we shouldn’t act like we are interested. No one ever fell over a
precipice who never went near one.
Richard L. Evans, “Conference Report” April 1970
Through obedience to gospel principles, the enticements of the world lessen in our lives. With each right choice
we make, we spiritually empower ourselves. The accumulation of right choices builds inner spiritual strength
and divine character. We should expect temptation, for without temptations there would be little education and
Obedience
little character improvement.
Rulon G. Craven, “Temptation” Ensign May 1996
The great test of life is obedience to God.
The great task of life is to learn the will of the Lord and then do it.
The great commandment of life is to love the Lord.
Ezra Taft Benson, “The Great Commandment—Love the Lord” Ensign May 1988
I am pleased to be counted as one of you. This evening I would like to challenge the priesthood of the Church to
be more committed in doing those things which build faith, character, and spirituality. These are the routine
priesthood obligations we should be doing daily, weekly, monthly—year in and year out. The work of the Church
depends upon basics such as paying tithes; taking care of family and priesthood duties; caring for the poor and
the needy; having daily prayer, scripture study, and family home evening; home teaching; participation in
quorum activity; and attending the temple.
We do not prove our love for the Savior only by doing “some great thing.” If the prophet personally asked you to
go on a mission to some strange and exotic place, would you go? You would probably make every effort to go.
But what about paying tithing? What about doing your home teaching? We show our love for the Savior by
doing the many small acts of faith, devotion, and kindness to others that define our character.
James E. Faust, “Some Great Thing” Ensign Nov. 2001
The choices you make today will directly influence the number and kinds of opportunities you will have in the
future. Each daily decision will either limit or broaden your opportunities. As you make righteous decisions
during this preparatory period, you will be ready to make righteous decisions in the future.
Robert D. Hales, “Fulfilling Our Duty to God” Ensign Nov. 2001
Our beloved President Thomas S. Monson has given us his prophetic witness. He said: “I testify to you that our
promised blessings are beyond measure. Though the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down
upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and
sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments.”
President Monson continued: “My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as
bright as your faith.”
Russell M. Nelson, “Face the Future with Faith” Ensign May 2011
Conviction, humility, repentance, and submissiveness precede the abandonment of our weapons of rebellion.
Do you and I still possess weapons of rebellion that keep us from becoming converted unto the Lord? If so, then
we need to repent now.
David A. Bednar, “Converted unto the Lord” Ensign Nov. 2012
Have faith in Christ, trust Him, come unto Him, follow Him (see 3 Ne. 27:13–16; Moro. 10:32–33). Make a
mental list of those things you know you ought not to be doing. Stop doing today at least one such thing, and
replace it with what you ought to do. Pray to Heavenly Father for forgiveness and for the strength to complete
this journey. As you overcome one obstacle and move on to another, I promise that step by step the way will
unfold before you until, as the wearied traveler, you are back where you belong.
Keith B. McMullin, “Welcome Home” Ensign May 1999
Father forgive us, for we do not what we know.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Christmas Devotional” Dec. 1998
Obedience
If we keep the commandments “the Holy Ghost shall be *our+ constant companion” (D&C 121:46) to buoy us up,
to teach us, lead us, comfort us, and sustain us. To obtain this companionship, we need to ask for it, to live for it,
to be loyal to the Lord.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Words of the Prophet: The Gift of the Holy Ghost” New Era Jan. 2005
On the day the Church was organized, Joseph Smith received a revelation that included an important principle
for all Church members. Speaking to the Church about Joseph Smith the Lord said, “Thou shalt give heed unto all
his words and commandments which he shall give unto you … for his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own
mouth.”
Now listen to the blessings promised to those who heed: “For by doing these things the gates of hell shall not
prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the
heavens to shake for your good.”
Those are powerful promises that can keep us safe in these treacherous times. We need them, and the Lord will
give them to each of us if we are willing to follow the prophets, seers, and revelators.
Paul V. Johnson, “The Blessings of General Conference” Ensign Nov. 2005
I believe that if we will walk in obedience to the commandments of God,…He will open a way where there
appears to be no way.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign July 1995
The only sure way to protect ourselves and our families from the onslaught of the teachings of the world is to
commit to live the commandments of God, to attend our Church meetings where we can learn and be
strengthened in our testimonies and partake of the sacrament to renew our covenants, to prepare ourselves to
worthily enter the temple where we may find a refuge from the world and a place of renewal of our capacity to
cope with the evils of the world.
David B. Haight, “Successful Living of Gospel Principles” Ensign Nov. 1992
The Lord’s response to us is always filled with love. Should not our response to Him be in kind, with real feelings
of love? He gives grace (or goodness) for grace, attribute for attribute. As our obedience increases, we receive
more grace (or goodness) for the grace we return to Him. Offer Him the refinement of your attributes, so that
when He does appear you will be like Him.
Gene R. Cook, “Charity: Perfect and Everlasting Love” Ensign May 2002
In conclusion, the submission of one’s will is really the only uniquely personal thing we have to place on God’s
altar. The many other things we “give,” brothers and sisters, are actually the things He has already given or
loaned to us. However, when you and I finally submit ourselves, by letting our individual wills be swallowed up
in God’s will, then we are really giving something to Him! It is the only possession which is truly ours to give!
Neal A. Maxwell, “Swallowed Up in the Will of the Father” Ensign Nov. 1995
Christ’s ultimate submission to the will of the Father was as He drank the bitter cup of suffering in Gethsemane,
at His scourging, and in His Crucifixion on Golgotha. His submissive attitude is reflected in His words, “O my
Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt” (Matt. 26:39). His
example of unhesitating, unswerving obedience sets a very high bar, but when we accept His admonition to “be
perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect” (3 Ne. 12:48) as a key element of the plan of eternal
progression, we begin to understand what the Lord expects us to be. As we seek to determine what kind of
Obedience
Saints we really are, we must honestly grade ourselves on our willingness to obey God.
Robert C. Oaks, “Stand and Be Judged for What We Really Are” Ensign April 2003
When the Lord used the expression “savor of men,” he was speaking of those who represent him. He was
referring to those who have repented, who have been washed clean in the waters of baptism, and who have
covenanted to take upon them his name and his cause. Moreover, he was speaking of those who would share by
covenant his priesthood power. He was speaking of you and me.
A world-renowned chemist told me that salt will not lose its savor with age. Savor is lost through mixture and
contamination. Similarly, priesthood power does not dissipate with age; it, too, is lost through mixture and
contamination.
Flavor and quality flee a man when he contaminates his mind with unclean thoughts, desecrates his mouth by
speaking less than the truth, and misapplies his strength in performing evil acts. King Benjamin cautioned,
“Watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of
God” (Mosiah 4:30).
Carlos E. Asay, “Salt of the Earth: Savor of Men and Saviors of Men” Ensign May 1980
Obedience leads to true freedom. The more we obey revealed truth, the more we become liberated.
James E. Faust, “Obedience: The Path to Freedom” Ensign May 1999
With faith and obedience practiced long enough, the Holy Ghost becomes a constant companion, our natures
change, and endurance becomes certain.
Henry B. Eyring, “True Friends” Ensign May 2002
Regardless of our age and stage in life, daily obedience to gospel principles is the only sure way to eternal
happiness. President Ezra Taft Benson put it most poignantly when he said, “When obedience ceases to be an
irritant and becomes our quest, in that moment God will endow us with power.”
Donald L. Staheli, “Obedience—Life’s Great Challenge” Ensign May 1998
There is a line of demarcation well defined between the Lord’s territory and the devil’s territory. If you will stay
on the Lord’s side of the line you will be under His influence and will have no desire to do wrong; but if you cross
to the devil’s side of that line one inch you are in the tempter’s power and if he is successful, you will not be able
to think or even reason properly because you will have lost the Spirit of the Lord.
George A. Smith as quoted by George Albert Smith “Teachings of Presidents of the Church: George Albert
Smith”
I’m not ashamed to say that I want to be good. And I’ve found in my life that it has been critically important *to
establish this intention] between me and the Lord so that I knew that He knew which way I committed my
agency. I went before Him and said, “I’m not neutral, and you can do with me what you want. If you need my
vote, it’s there. I don’t care what you do with me, and you don’t have to take anything from me because I give it
to you—everything, all I own, all I am—and that makes the difference.
Boyd K. Packer, “To Those Who Teach in Troubled Times” Seminary Institute Conference 1970
At a recent address to the women in the BYU Third Stake, Sister Sheri L. Dew gave the secret to victory in the
world today. Referencing an experience she had while witnessing the pressure at an Olympic figure skating
event, Sister Dew said: “Consider the time that we have lived before we came to earth and whatever it means to
live forever. This tiny little time that we are on the earth, when the spotlight is on us, when the pressure is on,
Obedience
can we do it when it counts. Can we do what we have come here to do?
Sheri L. Dew
I have gone to another room in my house, become engaged in something on the way, and when I finally got to
the room I had originally planned to go, I had forgotten why I had gone there. I’m sure you have had this happen
to you, so…Don’t let this happen to our life on this earth. We knew before we came here, that we came here to
be tested so we can return to our Father in Heaven.
Richard G. Scott, “Multi-Stake Conference” California Jan. 1998
We are promised great blessings in this life also, if we will study and live the word of the Lord. Here are just a
few of the blessings we may receive:
1. Power to live righteously
2. Power to overcome evil
3. Power to change the heart and attitude
4. Increase in hope and joy
5. Increase in knowledge and understanding
6. Increase in testimony
Jay E. Jensen, “Promises” Friend Aug. 1995
I made this my rule: When the Lord Commands, do it.
Joseph Smith
How many of us, learning the will of the Father, are doing it? How many of us day by day are laying a foundation
and building a structure that shall conform to the dignity of the stature of our Master? ‘Yea, man is the
tabernacle of God, even temples’ and whatsoever temple is defiled, God shall destroy that temple.’ *D&C 93:35+
He has given us intelligence and wisdom above our fellowmen. A knowledge of pre-existence has been given to
the Latter-day Saints; a knowledge that we are here because we kept our first estate, and that we have been
given the opportunity of gaining eternal life in the presence of our Heavenly Father, by keeping our second
estate. We will not be judged as our brothers and sisters of the world are judged, but according to the greater
opportunities placed in our keeping. We will be among those who have received the word of the Lord, who have
heard His sayings, and if we do them it will be to us eternal life, but if we fail condemnation will result.
George Albert Smith, “Teachings of Presidents of the Church: George Albert Smith”
“Agree with thine adversary” (Matt. 5:25). “Love your enemies” (Matt. 5:44). “Judge not” (Matt. 7:1). “Love thy
neighbour as thyself” (Matt. 22:39). “Condemn not” (Luke 6:37). “Forgive” (Luke 6:37). “Love one another” (John
13:34).
Those are but a few of the scriptural instructions clearly indicating that God’s peace is not to be hoarded.
Rather, it is to be shared liberally with our families, our friends, and our communities. It is to be shared with the
Church as well as those who are not members of our Church. While those around us may not choose to taste the
sweetness and peace of the fullness of the restored gospel for themselves, surely they will be blessed by seeing
it in our lives and feeling the peace of the gospel in our presence. The message of peace will grow and expand
through our example.
M. Russell Ballard, “The Peaceable Things of the Kingdom” Ensign May 2002
I return to the Prophet Joseph’s words: ‘Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end
thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and
Obedience - Parenting
keeping all the commandments of God.’ Let us walk these clearly defined paths. To help us do so we can follow
the shortest sermon in the world. It is found on a common traffic sign. It says, “Keep right.”
Thomas S. Monson, Oct. 1993
I say to this people, Do as you are told; and if you live by every righteous principle that you can learn and forsake
every evil principle and act through your whole lives as becometh Saints of the Most High, all will be well. Can
men live so that they can have the serene, blessed, calm, soft, soothing Spirit of the Lord always to abide with
them? Yes, they can. And if they are tempted, they can resist temptation. Can women? They can. If they have
temptation they can resist it, and it will flee from them, and they will gain a victory.
Brigham Young, “Journal of Discourses”
As the teachings of the Savior are consistently obeyed, life will be beautiful, the future secure, and there will be
capacity to overcome the challenges that cross our path.
Richard G. Scott, Ensign Nov. 2001
Well-taught doctrines and principles have a more powerful influence on behavior than rules.
Dallin H. Oaks, Ensign 1999
Parenting
In the ideal home, each child would be given every possible opportunity to develop his own personality without
too much domination. Discipline is organized love, and children develop properly in an atmosphere of love, with
adequate guidelines to shape their lives and their habits. More children are punished for mimicking their parents
than ever for disobeying them. We should be what we want to see.
LeGrand R. Curtis, “Happiness is Homemade” Ensign Nov. 1990
I believe and accept the comforting statement of Elder Orson F. Whitney:
“The Prophet Joseph Smith declared—and he never taught more comforting doctrine—that the eternal sealings
of faithful parents and the divine promises made to them for valiant service in the Cause of Truth, would save
not only themselves, but likewise their posterity. Though some of the sheep may wander, the eye of the
Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or later they will feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching out after
them and drawing them back to the fold. Either in this life or the life to come, they will return. They will have to
pay their debt to justice; they will suffer for their sins; and may tread a thorny path; but if it leads them at last,
like the penitent Prodigal, to a loving and forgiving father’s heart and home, the painful experience will not have
been in vain. Pray for your careless and disobedient children; hold on to them with your faith. Hope on, trust on,
till you see the salvation of God.”
A principle in this statement that is often overlooked is that they must fully repent and “suffer for their sins” and
“pay their debt to justice.” I recognize that now is the time “to prepare to meet God.” If the repentance of the
wayward children does not happen in this life, is it still possible for the cords of the sealing to be strong enough
for them yet to work out their repentance? In the Doctrine and Covenants we are told, “The dead who repent
will be redeemed, through obedience to the ordinances of the house of God,
“And after they have paid the penalty of their transgressions, and are washed clean, shall receive a reward
according to their works, for they are heirs of salvation.”
James E. Faust, “Dear Are the Sheep That Have Wandered” Ensign May 2003
Parenting
Too frequently, women underestimate their influence for good. Well could you follow the formula given by the
Lord: “Establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a
house of glory, a house of order, a house of God.” (D&C 88:119.)
In such a house will be found happy, smiling children who have been taught, by precept and example, the truth.
In a Latter-day Saint home, children are not simply tolerated, but welcomed; not commanded, but encouraged;
not driven, but guided; not neglected, but loved.
Thomas S. Monson, “The Spirit of Relief Society” Ensign May 1992
We need to greatly increase religious observance in the home. Weekly family home evening and daily family
prayer and scripture study are essential. We need to introduce into our homes content that is “virtuous, lovely,
or of good report or praiseworthy.” If we make of our homes holy places that shelter us from evil, we will be
protected from the adverse consequences that the scriptures have foretold.
Quentin L. Cook, “Let There Be Light!” Ensign Nov. 2010
You can’t possibly do this alone, but you do have help. The Master of Heaven and Earth is there to bless you—
He who resolutely goes after the lost sheep, sweeps thoroughly to find the lost coin, waits everlastingly for the
return of the prodigal son. Yours is the work of salvation, and therefore you will be magnified, compensated,
made more than you are and better than you have ever been as you try to make honest effort, however feeble
you may sometimes feel that to be.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Because She Is a Mother” Ensign May 1997
The ultimate end of all activity in the Church is to see a husband and his wife and their children happy at home,
protected by the principles and laws of the gospel, sealed safely in the covenants of the everlasting priesthood.
Husbands and wives should understand that their first calling—from which they will never be released—is to
one another and then to their children.
Boyd K. Packer, “And a Little Child Shall Lead Them” Ensign May 2012
At the time I was a new parent, President David O. McKay presided over the Church. His counsel was clear and
direct regarding our responsibilities to our children. He taught us the most precious gift a man and woman can
receive is a child of God, and that the raising of a child is basically, fundamentally, and most exclusively a
spiritual process.
He directed us to basic principles we need to teach our children. The first and most important inner quality you
can instill in a child is faith in God. The first and most important action a child can learn is obedience. And the
most powerful tool you have with which to teach a child is love. (See Instructor, Vol. 84, Dec. 1949, p. 620.)
L. Tom Perry, “Train Up a Child” Ensign May 1983
We can see that not all activities we could engage in are equally important even though they may appropriately
be a part of a spiritually balanced family unity development program. Some concerns have higher priorities. We
remember the words of Nephi as he counseled: “And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ,
we prophesy of Christ … that our children may know to what source they look.” (2 Ne. 25:26.) What inner
strength would be in every person if he knew that the Master and His teachings were indeed his great source of
guidance, his great source of correct example, his great source of help! That is our prime goal in all our teaching
in the home.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Therefore I Was Taught” Aug. 1982
Parenting
A better tomorrow begins with the training of a better generation. This places upon parents the responsibility to
do a more effective work in the rearing of children. The home is the cradle of virtue, the place where character
is formed and habits are established. The home evening is the opportunity to teach the ways of the Lord.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Opposing Evil” Ensign Sept. 2004
Surely the thing God enjoys most about being God is the thrill of being merciful, especially to those who don’t
expect it and often feel they don’t deserve it.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Laborers in the Vineyard” Ensign May 2012
The story of the prodigal son gives us all hope. The prodigal remembered home, as will your children. They will
feel your love drawing them back to you. Elder Orson F. Whitney, in a general conference of 1929, gave a
remarkable promise, which I know is true, to the faithful parents who honor the temple sealing to their children:
“Though some of the sheep may wander, the eye of the Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or later they will
feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching out after them and drawing them back to the fold.”
Henry B. Eyring, “Our Perfect Example” Ensign Nov. 2009
Brothers and sisters, as parents let us heed the admonition, even the rebuke, given by the Lord to Joseph Smith
and the leaders of the Church in 1833 to “set in order *our+ own house” (D&C 93:43). “I have commanded you to
bring up your children in light and truth” (D&C 93:40). “Set in order *our+ family, and see that they are more
diligent and concerned at home, and pray always, or they shall be removed out of their place” (D&C 93:50).
The prophets of our day have given a similar admonition and warning to parents to set in order our families.
May we be blessed with the inspiration and love to meet opposition with faith within our families. We will then
know that our trials are to draw us closer to the Lord and to one another. May we listen to a prophet’s voice and
set in order our own homes (see D&C 93:41–49). The family is strengthened as we draw near to the Lord, and
each member of the family is strengthened as we lift and strengthen and love and care for one another. “Thee
lift me and I’ll lift thee, and we’ll ascend together” (Quaker proverb).
Robert D. Hales, “Strengthening Families: Our Sacred Duty” Ensign May 1999
We sit idly by watching as an insidious stream of profanity, vulgarity, demeaning behavior, a mocking of
righteous ideals and principles, invades our homes and lives through most types of media, teaching our children
negative values and moral corruption. We then become upset when our children perform differently than we
would wish, and social behavior continues to deteriorate.
There should be no question about our standards, our beliefs—about who we are!
Today, we know how we should live. We know right from wrong. We are to teach and train our children in the
ways of the Lord. Children should not be left to their own devices in learning character and family values, or
listening to and watching unsupervised music or television or movies as a means of gaining knowledge and
understanding as to how to live their lives!
The only sure way to protect ourselves and our families from the onslaught of the teachings of the world is to
commit to live the commandments of God, to attend our Church meetings where we can learn and be
strengthened in our testimonies and partake of the sacrament to renew our covenants, to prepare ourselves to
worthily enter the temple where we may find a refuge from the world and a place of renewal of our capacity to
cope with the evils of the world.
David B. Haight, “Successful Living of Gospel Principles” Ensign Nov. 1992
Parenting
Children must learn obedience, and parents must exact obedience from them. Love your children, let them
know that you love them; but remember that it is no favor to a child to let him do things he should not do.
N. Eldon Tanner, “Obeying the Right Voice” Ensign Nov. 1977
My sincere counsel to you today is to recommit yourselves to these two basic practices that have been the
source of so many blessings for the Saints in Peru. Never let a day go by without holding family prayer and family
scripture study. Put this, the Lord’s program, to the test; and see if it does not bless your home with greater
peace, hope, love, and faith.
I promise you that daily family prayer and scripture study will build within the walls of your home a security and
bonding that will enrich your lives and prepare your families to meet the challenges of today and the eternities
to come.
L. Tom Perry, “Back to Gospel Basics” Ensign May 1993
A few years ago, Bishop Stanley Smoot was interviewed by President Spencer W. Kimball. President Kimball
asked, “How often do you have family prayer?”
Bishop Smoot answered, “We try to have family prayer twice a day, but we average about once.”
President Kimball answered, “In the past, having family prayer once a day may have been all right. But in the
future it will not be enough if we are going to save our families.”
I wonder if having casual and infrequent family home evening will be enough in the future to fortify our children
with sufficient moral strength. In the future, infrequent family scripture study may be inadequate to arm our
children with the virtue necessary to withstand the moral decay of the environment in which they will live.
Where in the world will the children learn chastity, integrity, honesty, and basic human decency if not at home?
These values will, of course, be reinforced at church, but parental teaching is more constant.
James E. Faust, “The Greatest Challenge in the World—Good Parenting” Ensign Nov. 1990
As you develop your capacity to love unconditionally, remember that listening is a part of showing love. If your
home is a home where children are listened to, even when what they say doesn’t seem important or you don’t
feel you have time, then you are preparing hearts. Can we listen openly to a shocking experience without going
into a state of shock ourselves, or without an immediate verbal overreaction? We all know there is a time to talk
and a time to listen. To listen with patience to a young person’s reasons for getting home late will bring you
undying gratitude. Remember, you can listen to understand, not necessarily to agree. Oft times we do our best
teaching when we listen. Husband-and-wife relationships are nourished and strengthened as we listen to each
other more. Hearts are softened.
H. Burke Peterson, “Preparing the Heart” Ensign May 1990
Oh, it is wonderful to know that our Heavenly Father loves us—even with all our flaws! His love is such that even
should we give up on ourselves, He never will.
We see ourselves in terms of yesterday and today. Our Heavenly Father sees us in terms of forever. Although we
might settle for less, Heavenly Father won’t, for He sees us as the glorious beings we are capable of becoming.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Great Commandment” Ensign Nov. 2007
Good families face very significant challenges in controlling the use of television and videotapes in their homes. I
agree with Dr. Victor B. Cline when he said, “I am convinced by a vast amount of research that the images,
fantasies, and models which we are repeatedly exposed to in advertisements, entertainment, novels, motion
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pictures, and other works of art can and do … affect the self-image and, later, the behavior of nearly all young
people and adults too.” (Address at Tidewater Assembly on Family Life, Norfolk, Virginia.)
On another occasion, Dr. Cline said that the mental diet is as important as the nutritional diet. “The amount of
violence a child sees at 7 predicts how violent he will be at 17, 27, and 37. … Children’s minds are like banks—
whatever you put in, you get back 10 years later with interest.” He said that violent television teaches children,
step-by-step, “how to commit violent acts, and it desensitizes them to the horror of such behavior and to the
feelings of victims.” Dr. Cline said that America is suffering from “an explosion of interpersonal violence like we
have never seen before. … The violence is because of violence in our entertainment.” (See “Therapist says
children who view TV violence tend to become violent,” Deseret News, 24 Mar. 1989, p. 2B.)
M. Russell Ballard, “ The Effects of Television” Ensign May 1989
If your home is a home where family members are loved unconditionally, regardless of behavior, then your
home will have a spirit of warmth that will prepare the heart to receive the testimony of truth. When children
and teenagers are loved because of who they are and not for how they behave, only then can we begin to help
make much-needed changes in behavior.
H. Burke Peterson, “Preparing the Heart” Ensign May 1990
In these perilous times, as our youth are faced with this increased adversity, we can learn from others. In the
armed forces, particularly in all the navies throughout the world, every seaman understands one phrase that is a
clarion call for immediate help, no matter what he is doing or where he is on the ship. The call is “All hands on
deck.” Many a battle at sea has been won or lost by the response to this call.
We—as members of the Church, leaders of youth, anxious fathers, and concerned grandfathers—all need to
respond to the call for “all hands on deck” as it pertains to our youth and young single adults. We must all look
for opportunities to bless the youth whether or not we are currently closely associated with them. We must
continue to teach and fortify fathers and mothers in their divinely declared roles with their children in the home.
We must ask ourselves constantly if that extra sporting event, that extra activity or errand outside of the home
is more important than families being together at home.
Now is the time, brethren, when in every action we take, in every place we go, with every Latter-day Saint young
person we meet, we need to have an increased awareness of the need for strengthening, nurturing, and being
an influence for good in their lives.
Ronald A. Rasband, “Our Rising Generation” Ensign May 2006
We must recognize that the family is the cornerstone of civilization and that no nation will rise above the caliber
of its homes. The family is the rock foundation of the Church. We therefore call on the head of every household
to strengthen the family.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Counsel to the Saints” Ensign May 1984
Our church buildings are not the only places where we can worship. Our homes should also be places of
devotion. It would be well if each day we could “go home to church.” There should be no other place where the
Spirit of the Lord is more welcome and more easily accessible than in our own homes.
Dean L. Larsen, “Winding Up Our Spiritual Clocks” Ensign Nov. 1989
Do you want to get rid of a bad habit? Do you want to improve relationships in your family? Do you want to
increase your spiritual capacity? Read the Book of Mormon!
Russell M. Nelson, Ensign Nov. 1999
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Societies at large are strengthened as families grow stronger. Commitments to family and values are the basic
cause. Nearly everything else is effect. When couples marry and make commitments to each other, they greatly
increase their chances of economic well-being. When children are born in wedlock and have both a mom and a
dad, their opportunities and their likelihood of occupational success skyrocket. And when families work and play
together, neighborhoods and communities flourish, economies improve, and less government and fewer costly
safety nets are required.
M. Russell Ballard, “That the Lost May Be Found” Ensign May 2012
May I suggest other ways to enrich family life:
1. Hold family prayer night and morning. The source of our enormous individual strength and potential is no
mystery. It is an endowment from God.
2. Study the scriptures. All of us need the strength that comes from daily reading of the scriptures.
3. Teach children to work. Every household has routine daily chores that children can be responsible for.
4. Teach discipline and obedience. If parents do not discipline their children and teach them to obey, society
may discipline them in a way neither the parents nor the children will like.
5. Place a high priority on loyalty to each other. If family members are not loyal to each other, they cannot
be loyal to themselves.
6. Teach principles of self-worth and self-reliance. One of the main problems in families today is that we
spend less and less time together. Some spend an extraordinary amount of time, when they are together,
in front of the television, which robs them of personal time for reinforcing feelings of self-worth. Time
together is precious time—time needed to talk, to listen, to encourage, and to show how to do things.
7. Develop family traditions. Some of the great strengths of families can be found in their own traditions…
8.
Do everything in the spirit of love.
James E. Faust, “Enriching Family Life” Ensign May 1983
And fathers,…Listen to [your returned missionary sons], and connect with them in regular, focused conversation.
Talk with them in depth about their feelings and desires. Pray with them, and give them blessings as they face
the important decisions in their future.
M. Russell Ballard, “Fathers and Sons: A Remarkable Relationship” Ensign Nov. 2009
Elder Boyd K. Packer given at a BYU devotional:
You cannot always choose where you live, but often you can. And when you can, keep in mind that it is a wise
thing to live so that children can be dominated by the home environment rather than by the neighborhood
environment. That is, have a place where your children can play by themselves. If others venture into their
playground area, they come as guests and must meet the standards that have been set and the limitations that
are established by the ideals that are yours.
Neil and Joan Flinders, “A Home Is also a House” Ensign Nov. 1973
Behold your little ones. Pray with them. Pray for them and bless them. The world into which they are moving is a
complex and difficult world. They will run into heavy seas of adversity. They will need all the strength and all the
faith you can give them while they are yet near you. And they also will need a greater strength which comes of a
higher power. They must do more than go along with what they find. They must lift the world, and the only
levers they will have are the example of their own lives and the powers of persuasion that will come of their
testimonies and their knowledge of the things of God. They will need the help of the Lord. While they are young,
pray with them that they may come to know that source of strength which shall then always be available in
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every hour of need.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Behold Your Little Ones” Ensign Nov. 1978
Now, love them, take care of them. Fathers, control your tempers, now and in all the years to come. Mothers,
control your voices, keep them down. Rear your children in love, in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Take care of your little ones, welcome them into your homes and nurture and love them with all of your hearts.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Salt Lake University Third Stake Conference” Nov. 1996
As we recall the commandment to stand in holy places, we should remember that beyond the temple, the most
sacred and holy places in all the world should be our own dwelling places. Our homes should be committed and
dedicated only to holy purposes. In our homes all of the security, the strengthening love, and the sympathetic
understanding that we all so desperately need should be found.
James E. Faust, “Who Shall Ascend into the Hill of the Lord? Ensign Aug. 2001
Family prayer in any home will draw the family closer together and result in better feelings between father and
mother, between parents and children, and between one child and another. If children pray for their parents, it
makes them more appreciative of their parents, and as they pray for one another, they feel closer to one
another and part of each other, especially as they realize that they are talking to their Father in heaven while on
their knees in family or secret prayer. Then is when we forget our differences and think of the best in others,
and pray for their well-being and for strength to overcome our own weaknesses. There is no doubt that we are
better people when we try to tune in to the spirit of our Father in heaven so that we might communicate with
him and express our desire to do His will as we pray for His blessings.
N. Eldon Tanner, “Conference Report” Oct. 1967
We sit idly by watching as an insidious stream of profanity, vulgarity, demeaning behavior, a mocking of
righteous ideals and principles, invades our homes and lives through most types of media, teaching our children
negative values and moral corruption. We then become upset when our children perform differently than we
would wish, and social behavior continues to deteriorate.
There should be no question about our standards, our beliefs—about who we are!
Today, we know how we should live. We know right from wrong. We are to teach and train our children in the
ways of the Lord. Children should not be left to their own devices in learning character and family values, or
listening to and watching unsupervised music or television or movies as a means of gaining knowledge and
understanding as to how to live their lives!
The only sure way to protect ourselves and our families from the onslaught of the teachings of the world is to
commit to live the commandments of God, to attend our Church meetings where we can learn and be
strengthened in our testimonies and partake of the sacrament to renew our covenants, to prepare ourselves to
worthily enter the temple where we may find a refuge from the world and a place of renewal of our capacity to
cope with the evils of the world.
David B. Haight, “Successful Living of Gospel Principles” Ensign Nov. 1992
There was an incident in the life of the Savior that was mentioned by Matthew, Mark, and Luke. A significant
part of the story is told by Mark in only two short verses and five words of the following verse. Let me read them
to you.
“And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him [that is,
when he saw Jesus], he fell at his feet,
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“And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy
hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.
“And Jesus went with him” (Mark 5:22–24).
Then comes a great acknowledgement of faith: “I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be
healed; and she shall live.” These are not only the words of faith of a father torn with grief but are also a
reminder to us that whatever Jesus lays his hands upon lives. If Jesus lays his hands upon a marriage, it lives. If
he is allowed to lay his hands on the family, it lives.
Howard W. Hunter, “Reading the Scriptures” Ensign Nov. 1979
The story of the prodigal son gives us all hope. The prodigal remembered home, as will your children. They will
feel your love drawing them back to you. Elder Orson F. Whitney, in a general conference of 1929, gave a
remarkable promise, which I know is true, to the faithful parents who honor the temple sealing to their children:
“Though some of the sheep may wander, the eye of the Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or later they will
feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching out after them and drawing them back to the fold.”
Henry B. Eryring, “Our Perfect Example” Ensign Nov. 2009
Children are open to gospel truths more than at any other time, and protected childhood is literally a once-in-alifetime opportunity to teach and strengthen children to choose the right.
It’s easy to know what to teach. The scriptures and our prophets are clear about what to teach our children.
Nephi summarizes it in this verse, “And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy
of Christ … that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins” (2 Nephi
25:26).
Knowing that we teach of Christ and His gospel, how do we do it? Begin by following the counsel of our prophets
and making time in our homes for family prayer, scripture study, and family home evening. Have we heard that
counsel so often that it seems too simple? Or are we so busy that adding one more thing feels too complex? I
testify that even when our family worship seems less than effective, obedience alone invites the blessings of the
Lord.
Margaret S. Lifferth, “Behold Your Little Ones” Ensign Nov. 2006
Like you, I don’t want to lose any of my children. I want to be together forever with all of my family. The temple
gives all of us extra hope of continuing and improving these relationships, even after this life. Sealings bestowed
in the temple promise additional blessings.
“The Prophet Joseph Smith declared—and he never taught more comforting doctrine—that the eternal sealings
of faithful parents and the divine promises made to them for valiant service in the Cause of Truth, would save
not only themselves, but likewise their posterity. Though some of the sheep may wander, the eye of the
Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or later they will feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching out after
them and drawing them back to the fold. Either in this life or the life to come, they will return. They will have to
pay their debt to justice; they will suffer for their sins; and may tread a thorny path; but if it leads them at last,
like the penitent Prodigal, to a loving and forgiving father’s heart and home, the painful experience will not have
been in vain.”
Richard H. Winkel, “The Temple Is about Families” Ensign Nov. 2006
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If you will accept it in your mind and cradle it in your feelings, a knowledge of the restored gospel and a
testimony of Jesus Christ can spiritually immunize your children.
Boyd K. Packer, “Do Not Fear” Ensign May 2004
I add my voice to these wise and inspired brethren and say to you that one of the most important things you can
do as priesthood leaders is to immerse yourselves in the scriptures. Search them diligently. Feast upon the
words of Christ. Learn the doctrine. Master the principles that are found therein. There are few other efforts
that will bring greater dividends to your calling. There are few other ways to gain greater inspiration as you
serve.
But that alone, as valuable as it is, is not enough. You must also bend your efforts and your activities to
stimulating meaningful scripture study among the members of the Church. Often we spend great effort in trying
to increase the activity levels in our stakes. We work diligently to raise the percentages of those attending
sacrament meetings. We labor to get a higher percentage of our young men on missions. We strive to improve
the numbers of those marrying in the temple. All of these are commendable efforts and important to the growth
of the kingdom. But when individual members and families immerse themselves in the scriptures regularly and
consistently, these other areas of activity will automatically come. Testimonies will increase. Commitment will
be strengthened. Families will be fortified. Personal revelation will flow.
Ezra Taft Benson, “The Power of the Word” Ensign May 1986
We can see that not all activities we could engage in are of equal weight, even though they may appropriately
be a part of a spiritually balanced family unity development program. Some concerns have higher priorities. We
remember the words of Nephi as he counseled: “And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ,
we prophesy of Christ … that our children may know to what source they may look.” (2 Ne. 25:26.) What inner
strength would be in every person if he knew that the Master and His teachings were indeed his great source of
guidance, his great source of correct example, his great source of help! That is our prime goal in all our teaching
in the home.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Therefore I Was Taught” Ensign Aug. 1982
The family is a creation of the Almighty. It represents the most sacred of all relationships.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign May 2005
The righteous molding of an immortal soul is the highest work we can do, and the home is the place to do it.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, Ensign May 1993
A young person’s developing concept of God centers on characteristics observed in that child’s earthly parents.
Jeffrey R. Holland, Ensign May 1999
Keep the fire of your testimony of the restored gospel and your witness of our Redeemer burning so brightly
that our children can warm their hands by the fire of your faith.
Boyd K. Packer, Ensign May 2003
No child in this Church should be left with uncertainty about his or her parents’ devotion to the Lord Jesus
Christ.
Jeffrey R. Holland, Ensign May 2003
The family circle is the ideal place to demonstrate and learn kindness, forgiveness, faith in God, and every other
practicing virtue of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Dallin H. Oaks, Ensign June 1985
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Teach your children when they are young and small, and never quit. As long as they are in your home, let them
be your primary interest.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign Nov. 2000
Family traditions can offer the basic and lasting support, but there’s a lot that must be built around them.
Perhaps, family traditions only work when they create a role for every member of the family, and there is united
effort to build them. This means family members need to spend time together and also learn how to work
together. When it comes to families, there is no such thing as quality time without a certain quantity of time.
L. Tom Perry, “The Church: Scaffolding for Our Lives” BYU Idaho Devotional Jan. 2012
Make the honoring of family traditions and the development of new ones a priority throughout your lives.
Holiday traditions, birthday traditions, Sunday traditions, dinner-time traditions – honor them, write them down
and make certain you follow them. Studies show that the reason young people join gangs is for the tradition and
ritual of belonging to something larger than self. That is what a family should be. Be certain you are creating a
rich environment for your family to look forward to these special times of the year when traditions hold you
together as a great eternal family unit.
L. Tom Perry, “The Church: Scaffolding for Our Lives” BYU Idaho Devotional Jan. 2012
There is a kind of pollution much more dangerous than acid rain, smog, and toxic waste—the spiritual and moral
pollution which is most evident in the mass media, films, TV, and popular music. There seems to be a declaration
of war against almost everything the majority treasures most: the family, religion, and patriotism. To combat
this pollution, we must do the following:
1. Set clear moral standards.
2. Teach children to work and to take responsibility. Help children learn self-discipline.
3. Create an environment in our family in which spiritual experiences can occur. These include having daily
family prayer, weekly Family Home Evenings, and daily scripture study.
4. Follow the counsel of the prophets.
Joe J. Christensen, “Rearing Children in a Polluted Environment” Ensign Nov. 1993
Matthew 25:40 - And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done
it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Say your prayers always before going to work. Never forget that. A father—the head of the family—should never
miss calling his family together and dedicating himself and them to the Lord of Hosts, asking the guidance and
direction of his Holy Spirit to lead them through the day—that very day. Lead us this day, guide us this day,
preserve us this day, save us from sinning against thee or any being in heaven or on earth this day! If we do this
every day, the last day we live we will be prepared to enjoy a higher glory.
Brigham Young, “Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young”
That which appeals to me in this is that we desire that our children grow up in purity, that they be active men
and women in the Church, honorable members of the communities where they live. Here are the words of the
living prophet, pointing out to us how we may be successful. Our children are dearer to us than all the world;
they are the most precious jewels that our Father in heaven could give us. We love them. We would give our
very lives for them, and here are a few simple rules of life for their preservation, if we will but observe these
rules, the prophet said we will be successful in rearing our children in purity and deliver them from the pitfalls
that constantly beset their paths. If we will observe the law of tithing honestly before God and before our
children, if we will faithfully observe our family and secret prayers, and if we will faithfully observe the Word of
Wisdom-the prophet says we shall have power and strength to preserve our children in purity. That is one of the
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greatest promises that has ever been made to us, and I have faith in it, I believe it, my brethren and sisters, and I
want to bear my testimony that if you will keep the commandments of God and observe to do them, you will be
successful in the rearing of your children.
George T. Hyde, “Conference Report” April 1924
Ernest Hemingway wrote a poignant short story called “The Capital of the World.” In it he tells about a Spanish
father who wants to reconcile with his son who has run away to Madrid. In order to locate the boy he takes out
this ad in the El Liberal newspaper: “Paco, meet me at the Hotel Montana at noon on Tuesday. All is forgiven.
Love, Papa”
Paco is a common name in Spain, and when the father goes to the square he finds 800 young men named Paco
waiting for their fathers.
What drew them to the hotel? As Hemingway tells it, it was the words “All is forgiven.” I notice that the father
did not say, “All WILL BE forgiven IF you do this or that.” Not, “ALL WILL BE forgiven WHEN you do such and
such.” He simply says, “All is forgiven.” No strings attached.
Steve Goodier
An unknown author beautifully portrays the possibilities of no-strings-attached love in this heartfelt story titled
“The Rock.”
“As she grew older her teenage daughter became increasingly rebellious. It culminated late one night when the
police arrested her daughter for drunk driving. Mom had to go to the police station to pick her up.
They didn’t speak until the next afternoon.
Mom broke the tension by giving her a small gift-wrapped box.
Her daughter nonchalantly opened it and found a little rock inside.
Her daughter took the card out of the envelope and read it. Tears started to trickle down her cheeks. She got up
and lovingly hugged her mom as the card fell to the floor.
On the card were these words: “This rock is more than 200,000,000 years old. That is how long it will take before
I give up on you. “”
Steve Goodier
Daily fervent prayers seeking forgiveness and special help and direction are essential to our lives and the
nourishment of our testimonies. When we become hurried, repetitive, casual, or forgetful in our prayers, we
tend to lose the closeness of the Spirit, which is so essential in the continual direction we need to successfully
manage the challenges of our everyday lives. Family prayer every morning and night adds additional blessings
and power to our individual prayers and to our testimonies.
Donald L. Staheli, “Securing Our Testimonies” Ensign Nov. 2004
What then must be our service? What must we do? We must be constantly alert to their evil presence in our
homes and destroy them as we would the germs and filth of disease. We must hunt them from the closets of
our minds, freeing ourselves of such worldliness, quenching the embers of wickedness before they become
destructive flames. How do we do this?
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If we would escape those deadly thrusts of the evil one and keep our homes and families free and solidly
fortified against all destructive influences so rampant about us, we must have the help of the very founder and
organizer of this family plan—the Creator himself. There is only one sure way and that is through the gospel of
the Lord Jesus Christ and being obedient to its profound and inspired teachings. Surely we must be made to
realize that the purchase price of a family hearth free of such evil influences is the keeping of the
commandments of God.
Spencer W. Kimball, "Fortify Your Homes Against Evil," Ensign May 1979
The Lord fixed families to give parents more influence on children than all other agencies combined. There is
safety in this arrangement. It provides parents the privilege, the awesome privilege, of molding the life and
character of a child, even though outside agencies have influence.
A. Theodore Tuttle, "Therefore I Was Taught," Ensign November 1979
Date: February 28, 1999
To: Members of the Church Throughout the World
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
All about us we see evidence of the corrosive elements targeted to injure our youth. We compliment most
warmly those of our young people who choose to follow the way of the Lord and the program of the Church. We
are pleased to note that faith is increasing among our youth, for which we are deeply grateful.
Unfortunately, there are some who fall into the adversary’s net and drift into inactivity and trouble. We are
deeply concerned with these. We call upon parents to devote their best efforts to the teaching and rearing of
their children in gospel principles which will keep them close to the church. The home is the basis of a righteous
life, and no other instrumentality can take its place or fulfill its essential functions in carrying forward this Godgiven responsibility.
We counsel parents and children to give highest priority to family prayer, family home evening, gospel study and
instruction, and wholesome family activities. However worthy and appropriate other demands or activities may
be, they must not be permitted to displace the divinely-appointed duties that only parents and families can
adequately perform.
We urge bishops and other Church officers to do all they can to assist parents in seeing that they have time and
help, where needed, as they nurture their families and bring them up in the way of the Lord. Wherever possible,
Sunday meetings, other than those under the three-hour schedule and perhaps council meetings on early
Sunday mornings or firesides later in the evening, should be avoided so that parents may be with their children.
As we strengthen families, we will strengthen the entire Church.
Faithfully your brethren,
The First Presidency
Patience - Peace
Patience
Amid the frustrations at having done what is right only to see things go wrong, faith is taxed unless it is
augmented by patience. We often need to wait for better perspective than the present provides. Then, as the
darkness of disappointment yields to the dawn’s light, purposes previously hidden become apparent. However,
if in our frustrations we ‘rush to judgment’ by being upset or angry, we let loose a flood of toxic emotions. The
workhorse virtues of faith and patience can prevent, dilute, dissolve, as well as ‘mop up’ after such toxic floods
of feelings.
Neal A. Maxwell, “Lord, Increase Our Faith” p.118
Patience with family members and others who are close to us is vital for us to have happy homes.
However, we often seem more willing to be courteous and polite with strangers than with those in our own
family circles. For some reason, criticism, sharp language, and quarreling too often seem to be acceptable at
home but not away from home.
Husbands, be patient with your wives; and wives, be patient with your husbands. Don’t expect perfection. Find
agreeable ways to work out the differences that arise. Remember President David O. McKay’s wise counsel
regarding marriage: keep your eyes wide open before marriage and half closed afterward (see Conference
Report, April 1956). Perhaps, on occasion, our wives could get into the car and honk the horn while we, as
husbands, get the children ready.
Parents, be patient with your children. Read to your little children and help them with their schoolwork, even if
you need to tell or show them the same thing many times. Elder Richard L. Evans said, “If they find that they can
trust us with their trivial questions, they may later trust us with more weighty ones” (Ensign May 1971, p.12).
Capitalize on their natural curiosity and help them develop a love for learning. Teach them the principles of the
gospel in simple terms. Be patient with them if they disturb family home evening or family prayers. Convey to
them the reverence you feel for the gospel, church leaders, and the Savior.
Joseph B. Wirthlin
Peace
Personal peace and our level of spirituality will increase as we focus on studying and thinking about Christ every
day; by loving and thanking Christ more each day for his atoning sacrifice; by daily striving to serve Christ better
through becoming more involved in missionary service; by making a greater effort to find his lost sheep, his lost
coins, his lost prodigals, and helping them to return to the fold; by making a more concerted effort to be in the
temple more frequently; and by researching more diligently our family’s history. Is there any peace greater than
that of the faithful missionary, the caring shepherd, the dedicated temple patron and worker?
In spite of all the problems in the world today, peace can come to the hearts of each of us as we follow the
Savior. Christ is the way to peace, the truth of peace, the life of peace, the source of peace. Look forward with
steadfastness unto Christ, talk of Christ, rejoice in Christ, preach of Christ, live as Christ would have us live, and
worship him and our Heavenly Father with all your heart, might, mind, and strength.
Robert E. Wells, “Peace” Ensign May 1991
Perseverance - Prayer
“Agree with thine adversary” (Matt. 5:25). “Love your enemies” (Matt. 5:44). “Judge not” (Matt. 7:1). “Love thy
neighbour as thyself” (Matt. 22:39). “Condemn not” (Luke 6:37). “Forgive” (Luke 6:37). “Love one another” (John
13:34).Those are but a few of the scriptural instructions clearly indicating that God’s peace is not to be hoarded.
Rather, it is to be shared liberally with our families, our friends, and our communities. It is to be shared with the
Church as well as those who are not members of our Church. While those around us may not choose to taste the
sweetness and peace of the fullness of the restored gospel for themselves, surely they will be blessed by seeing
it in our lives and feeling the peace of the gospel in our presence. The message of peace will grow and expand
through our example.
M. Russell Ballard, “The Peaceable Things of the Kingdom” Ensign May 2002
Perseverance
When George A. Smith was very ill, he was visited by his cousin, the Prophet Joseph Smith. The afflicted man
reported: “He *the Prophet+ told me I should never get discouraged, whatever difficulties might surround me. If I
were sunk into the lowest pit of Nova Scotia and all the Rocky Mountains piled on top of me, I ought not to be
discouraged, but hang on, exercise faith, and keep up good courage, and I should come out on the top of the
heap.” (George A. Smith Family, comp. Zora Smith Jarvis, Provo, Utah: Brigham Young University Press, 1962, p.
54.)
There are times when you simply have to righteously hang on and outlast the devil until his depressive spirit
leaves you. As the Lord told the Prophet Joseph Smith: “Thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small
moment;
“And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high.” (D&C 121:7–8.)
Ezra Taft Benson, “Do Not Despair” Ensign Oct. 1986
Prayer
The efficacy of our prayers depends on how we care for one another.
Marion G. Romney, “Welfare Services: The Savior’s Program” Ensign Nov. 1980
Kneel in prayer before the Almighty with thanksgiving unto Him for His bounteous blessings. May you then stand
on your feet and go forward as sons and daughters of God to bring to pass His eternal purposes, each in your
own way.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Each a Better Person” Ensign Nov. 2002
“Remember that whatever you do or wherever you are, you are never alone," was my father’s familiar counsel.
Our Heavenly Father is always near. We can reach out and receive His aid through prayer. I have found this
counsel to be true. Thank God we can reach out and tap that unseen power, without which no man can do his
best.
Ezra Taft Benson, "Pray Always" Ensign Feb. 1990
Without earnest prayer, repentance and cleansing are not possible. When the door is opened by prayer, there is
possibility for peace. One of the questions we must ask of our Heavenly Father in private prayer is this: “What
have I done today, or not done, which displeases Thee? If I can only know, I will repent with all my heart without
Prayer
delay.” That humble prayer will be answered. And the answers will surely include the assurance that asking
today was better than waiting to ask tomorrow.
Henry B. Eyring, “Do Not Delay” Ensign Nov. 1999
Do our spouses, children, and other family members likewise feel the power of our prayers offered unto the
Father for their specific needs and desires? Do those we serve hear us pray for them with faith and sincerity? If
those we love and serve have not heard and felt the influence of our earnest prayers in their behalf, then the
time to repent is now. As we emulate the example of the Savior, our prayers truly will become more meaningful.
David A. Bednar, "Pray Always," Ensign Oct. 2008
Our ability to hear spiritually is linked to our willingness to work at it. President Hinckley has often said that the
only way he knows to get anything done is to get on his knees and plead for help and then get on his feet and go
to work. That combination of faith and hard work is the consummate curriculum for learning the language of the
Spirit. The Savior taught, “Blessed are all they who do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be
filled with the Holy Ghost” (3 Ne. 12:6; emphasis added). Hungering and thirsting translate to sheer spiritual
labor. Worshiping in the temple, repenting to become increasingly pure, forgiving and seeking forgiveness, and
earnest fasting and prayer all increase our receptivity to the Spirit. Spiritual work works and is the key to
learning to hear the voice of the Lord.
Sheri L. Dew, “We Are Not Alone” Ensign Nov. 1998
You could have an experience with the gift of the Holy Ghost today. You could begin a private prayer with
thanks. You could start to count your blessings, and then pause for a moment. If you exercise faith, and with the
gift of the Holy Ghost, you will find that memories of other blessings will flood into your mind. If you begin to
express gratitude for each of them, your prayer may take a little longer than usual. Remembrance will come.
And so will gratitude.
Henry B. Eyring, “Remembrance and Gratitude” Ensign Nov. 1989
Petitioning in prayer has taught me, again and again, that the vault of heaven with all its blessings is to be
opened only by a combination lock. One tumbler falls when there is faith, a second when there is personal
righteousness; the third and final tumbler falls only when what is sought is, in God’s judgment—not ours—right
for us. Sometimes we pound on the vault door for something we want very much and wonder why the door
does not open. We would be very spoiled children if that vault door opened any more easily than it does. I can
tell, looking back, that God truly loves me by inventorying the petitions He has refused to grant me. Our rejected
petitions tell us much about ourselves but also much about our flawless Father.
Neal A. Maxwell, “Insights” New Era April 1978
There may be things in our character, in our behavior, or concerning our spiritual growth about which we need
to counsel with Heavenly Father in morning prayer. After expressing appropriate thanks for blessings received,
we plead for understanding, direction, and help to do the things we cannot do in our own strength alone.
David A. Bednar, “Pray Always” Ensign Nov. 2008
Discerning and accepting the will of God in our lives are fundamental elements of asking in faith in meaningful
prayer. However, simply saying the words “Thy will be done” is not enough. Each of us needs God’s help in
surrendering our will to Him.
“Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with
each other” (Bible Dictionary, “Prayer,” 752–53). Humble, earnest, and persistent prayer enables us to recognize
and align ourselves with the will of our Heavenly Father. And in this the Savior provided the perfect example as
Prayer
He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, “saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me:
nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. … And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly” (Luke 22:42,
44).
David A. Bednar, “Ask in Faith” Ensign May 2008
Our Heavenly Father did not launch us on our eternal voyage without providing the means whereby we could
receive from Him guidance to ensure our safe return. I speak of prayer. I speak too of the whisperings from that
still, small voice; and I do not overlook the holy scriptures, which contain the word of the Lord and the words of
the prophets—provided to us to help us successfully cross the finish line.
Thomas S. Monson, “The Race of Life” Ensign May 2012
I offer a plea that each of us will seek to live closer to the Lord and to commune with Him more frequently and
with increased faith.
Fathers and mothers, pray over your children. Pray that they may be shielded from the evils of the world. Pray
that they may grow in faith and knowledge. Pray that they may be directed toward lives that will be profitable
and good. Husbands, pray for your wives. Express unto the Lord your gratitude for them and plead with Him in
their behalf. Wives, pray for your husbands. Many of them walk a very difficult road with countless problems
and great perplexities. Plead with the Almighty that they may be guided, blessed, protected, inspired in their
righteous endeavors.
Pray for peace in the earth, that the Almighty who governs the universe will stretch forth His hand and let His
Spirit brood upon the people, that the nations may not rage one against another. Pray for the weather. We have
floods in one area and drought in another. I am satisfied that if enough prayers ascend to heaven for moisture
upon the land, the Lord will answer those prayers for the sake of the righteous.
Pray for wisdom and understanding as you walk the difficult paths of your lives. If you are determined to do
foolish and imprudent things, I think the Lord will not prevent you. But if you seek His wisdom and follow the
counsel of the impressions that come to you, I am confident that you will be blessed.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Benediction” Ensign May 2003
Do not pray for tasks equal to your abilities, but pray for abilities equal to your tasks. Then the performance of
your tasks will be no miracle, but you will be the miracle.
Thomas S. Monson, “Three Goals to Guide You” Ensign Nov. 2007
Daily fervent prayers seeking forgiveness and special help and direction are essential to our lives and the
nourishment of our testimonies. When we become hurried, repetitive, casual, or forgetful in our prayers, we
tend to lose the closeness of the Spirit, which is so essential in the continual direction we need to successfully
manage the challenges of our everyday lives. Family prayer every morning and night adds additional blessings
and power to our individual prayers and to our testimonies.
Donald L. Staheli, “Securing Our Testimonies” Ensign Nov. 2004
The Lord will hear your prayers in time of need. He will invariably answer them. However, His answers will
generally not come while you are on your knees praying, even when you may plead for an immediate response.
There is a pattern that must be followed. You are asked to look for an answer to your prayers, then confirm that
it is correct. Obey His counsel to “study it out in your mind.” Often you will think of a solution. Then seek
confirmation that your answer is right. This help can come from prayer and from pondering the scriptures, at
times by the intervention of others, or from your own capacity, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer
At times the Lord will want you to proceed with trust before you receive a confirming answer. His answer
generally comes as packets of help. As each piece is followed in faith, it will unite with others to give you the
whole answer. This pattern requires the exercise of faith. While sometimes very hard, it results in significant
personal growth. At times the Lord will give you an answer before you ask. This occurs when you are unaware of
a danger or may be doing the wrong thing, trusting that it is correct.
Richard G. Scott, “The Power of a Strong Testimony” Ensign Nov. 2001
So live that each morning you may kneel in prayer, seeking the direction and guidance of the Holy Spirit, as well
as its protective power, as you go about your work of the day.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Shepherds of the Flock” Ensign May 1999
Parents, safeguard your families. Bring up your children in light and truth as the Lord has commanded. Shower
them with love, but do not spoil them. Share your testimony with them. Read the scriptures together. Guide and
protect them. You have no greater blessing and no greater responsibility than those whom the Lord has placed
in your care. Pray together. There is no substitute for family prayer when all kneel together before the Lord.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Thanks to the Lord for His Blessings” Ensign May 1999
What an impact parent can have on their children if they pray as a family that their sons will prepare for and be
worthy to serve missions. How powerful will be the message when parents pray that their sons and daughters
will stay morally clean and keep themselves worthy to enter the holy temple to be sealed for time and all
eternity. As parents plead for the Holy Spirit to be in their home, children will come to know the importance of
seeking the Spirit in their own lives.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “October Conference” Ensign Nov. 2000
Speak with your Eternal Father in the name of His Beloved Son. “Behold,” He says, “I stand at the door, and
knock; if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with
me” (Rev. 3:20).
This is His invitation, and the promise is sure. It is unlikely that you will hear voices from heaven, but there will
come a heaven-sent assurance, peaceful and certain.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Be Prayerful” Ensign Oct. 2000
I know of no better way to cultivate a desire to do what is right than to humbly ask for forgiveness from him
whose right it is to forgive, and to ask for strength to live above weakness.
What a wonderful thing it is to remember before the Lord those who are sick and in sorrow, those who are
hungry and destitute, those who are lonely and afraid, those who are in bondage and sore distress. When such
prayers are uttered in sincerity and with feeling, there will follow a greater desire to reach out to those in need.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Environment of Our Homes” Ensign June 1985
There is something in the very posture of kneeling that contradicts the attitudes described by Paul: “proud …
heady, high-minded.” There is something in the act of addressing Deity that offsets a tendency toward
blasphemy and toward becoming lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Blessings of Family Prayer” Ensign Feb. 1991
Brothers and sisters, as we go forward in our lives, let us never forget to pray. God lives. He is near. He is real. He
is our Father. He is accessible to us. He is the author of eternal truth, the Master of the universe. The handle is
ready, and the door can be opened to His abundance. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God.” (James
Prayer
1:5–6.)
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Pillars of Truth” Ensign Jan. 1994
Brethren and sisters, I know that you are a praying people. That is a wonderful thing in this day and time when
the practice of prayer has slipped from many lives. To call upon the Lord for wisdom beyond our own, for
strength to do what we ought to do, for comfort and consolation, and for the expression of gratitude is a
significant and wonderful thing.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Fabric of Faith and Testimony” Ensign Nov. 1995
‘Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers’ (D&C
112:10). People ask me what is my favorite scripture, and I say I have many of them. But that is one of them.
Pray, and there is a power that you can tap greater than any that you possess.
Gordon B. Hinckley, Hawaii Feb. 1996
How wonderful it is that you get on your knees, you young people, and pray in earnestness night and morning. I
congratulate you. Prayer unlocks the powers of heaven in our behalf. Prayer is the great gift which our Eternal
Father has given us by which we may approach Him and speak with Him in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Be
prayerful. You cannot make it alone. You cannot reach your potential alone. You need the help of the Lord.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Regional Conference” April 1996
There is a power greater than you who can help you. Call on that power. Call on that power in prayer. He will
answer your prayers. He is the great God of the universe, but He will listen to you if you will approach Him in
prayer.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Tucson, AZ” Dec. 1996
Be prayerful. Get on your knees and talk with the Lord and He will hear and answer your prayers.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Elkno, NV” April 1997
I believe in prayer, that prayer which is the practice of those who have been called to leadership in this Church
and which bring forth inspiration and revelation from God for the Blessing of His church and people. I believe in
prayer, the precious and wonderful privilege given each of us for our individual guidance, comfort, and peace.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “BYU” 1992
I am convinced that one of the greatest and one of the best things in all the world to keep a man true and
faithful in the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, is to supplicate God secretly in the name of Jesus Christ, for the
guidance of His Holy Spirit. I am convinced that one of the greatest things that can come into any home to cause
the boys and girls in that home to grow up in a love of God, and in a love of the gospel of Jesus Christ, is to have
family prayer, not for the father of the family alone to pray, but for the mother and for the children to do so
also, that they may partake of the spirit of prayer, and be in harmony, be in tune, to have the radio, so to speak,
in communication with the Spirit of the Lord.
I believe that there are very few that go astray, that very few lose their faith, who have once had a knowledge of
the gospel, and who never neglect their prayers in their families, and their secret supplications to God.
Heber J. Grant, “Conference Report” Oct. 1923
We must always remember the Savior and pray always to have His Spirit. Without His Spirit we are susceptible
to the adversary’s influence and power.
Prayer
I plead with you to be determined to pray with all the energy of your heart that you might have every gift a
loving Heavenly Father knows you must have to serve His Son and to endure against the powers of darkness.
If you will let your heart be drawn to the Savior and always remember Him, and if you draw near to our
Heavenly Father in prayer, you will have put on spiritual armor.
Henry B. Eyring, Jan. 1999
Some become bitter when oft-repeated prayers seem unanswered. Some lose faith and turn sour when solemn
administrations by holy men seem to be ignored and no restoration seems to come from repeated prayer
circles. But if all the sick were healed, if all the righteous were protected and the wicked destroyed, the whole
program of the Father would be annulled and the basic principle of the gospel, free agency, would be ended.
If pain and sorrow and total punishment immediately followed the doing of evil, no soul would repeat a
misdeed. If joy and peace and rewards were instantaneously given the doer of good, there could be no evil – all
would do good and not because of the rightness of doing good. There would be no test of strength, no
development of character, no growth of powers, no free agency. There would also be an absence of joy, success,
resurrection, eternal life, and godhood.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Tragedy or Destiny” BYU Dec. 1955
One of the most powerful sources of personal development will come through the urgent prayers you offer in
faith for a foundation of righteousness. You will learn much as feelings distill in your mind and heart. Avoid
prayers that appear to be a set of instructions to the Lord—do this, bless that, change this, help me with that.
Rather, be a compliant student to the Ultimate Teacher. He wants you to succeed even more than you do
yourself.
Richard G. Scott, “The Fruits of Obedience” BYU June 1990
The Lord does allow darkness and struggle and pain. He often uses it to call us to him. Using my own children as
examples, I’ve come to know that the one who is playing happily is so preoccupied with pleasant experiences
that he sometimes may not respond when I call and may even run farther away. But the child who has been
hurt, or is in pain, seeks me out, comes to me readily, knocks at my door (if you will), and is anxious for me to
help and be healed.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “In the Thick of Life’s Urgencies” BYU Sept. 1984
May I tell a little story? More than half a century ago, I was standing on a little railway station platform in
Cardston, Canada. I was leaving for England on a mission. My saintly mother stood there with me and held my
hand. This is what she said, “Hugh, my son, do you remember when you were a little boy you often had bad
dreams, nightmares, and you called out to me as I was sleeping in the next room: ‘Mother, Mother, are you
there?’ Do you remember I always said, ‘Yes, my son, I’m here. Just turn over and go to sleep. Everything is all
right.’” She said, “My boy, five thousand miles must now separate us, across a continent and an ocean. You are
not going to have bad dreams only at night, but many times, in the daytime, you are going to want to call for
help and comfort. Son, when you are beset with difficulties, when you meet temptation, when you are confused
and don’t know where to go, call out and say, ‘Father, are you there?’” She said, “My boy, I promise you He will
always answer and you need not fear.”
My dear sisters, through the intervening years, countless occasions have arisen where men could not help me
much, when I felt alone, where I had a nightmare with my eyes wide open. I have taken the advice of my mother
and have said, “Father, are you there?” Now He has not spoken to me audibly; He has not appeared to me
personally; but He has always answered me. There has come into my heart a quiet peace which enabled me to
Prayer
know that I could, figuratively, turn over and go to sleep.
Hugh B. Brown, “Conference Report” April 1967
We ask for strength and God gives us difficulties which make us strong.
We ask for wisdom, and God gives us problems, the solution of which develops wisdom.
We plead for prosperity, and God gives us brain and
We plead for courage, and God gives us dangers to overcome.
We ask for favors, and God gives us opportunities.
This is the answer.
Hugh B. Brown
Believe in prayer and the power of prayer. Pray to the Lord with the expectation of answers. I suppose there is
not a man or woman in this entire congregation today who doesn’t pray. I hope that is so. The trouble with most
of our prayers is that we give them as if we were picking up the telephone and ordering groceries—we place our
order and hang up. We need to meditate, contemplate, think of what we are prating about and for and then
speak to the Lord as one man speaketh to another. ‘Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord’ (Isa.
1:18). That is the invitation. Believe in the power of prayer—it is real, it is wonderful, it is tremendous.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley” p. 469
I asked God to take away my pride. God said, “No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.”
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, “No. Her spirit is whole, her body is only
temporary.”
I asked God to grant me patience. God said, “No. Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is
earned.”
I asked God to give me happiness. God said, “No. I give you blessings, happiness is up to you.”
I asked God to spare me pain. God said, “No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer
to me.”
I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, “No, you must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make
you fruitful.”
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, “No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.”
I asked God to help me love others, as much as God loves me. God said… “Ahhhh, finally you have the idea!”
Author Unknown
Someone accurately said that maturity in prayer occurs when we are able to move from the plea, “Give me…” to
the deeper prayer, “Use me.”
Author Unknown
Most of us might be disposed to pray for unbroken good fortune, for uninterrupted happiness, for perpetual
prosperity, for victory, for assure success, for affluence and ease. But life isn’t an uninterrupted holiday; not,
obviously, was it intended to be. Rather it is a time of training, and often of trial, of education, and of self-effort,
as evidenced by the Lord God when he expelled Adam and Eve from Eden and said that they should eat bread by
the sweat of their brow.
It is not the usual purpose of prayer to serve us like Aladdin’s lamp, to bring us ease without effort. Prayer is not
a matter of asking only. It should not be always as the beggar’s upturned hand. Often the purpose of prayer is to
give us strength to do what needs to be done, wisdom to see the way to solve our own problems, and ability to
do our best in our tasks.
Prayer - Priesthood
We need to pray not only for freedom from difficulty but for strength to endure, for faith and fortitude to face
what sometimes must be faced…Prayer is also partly appreciation, and partly a petition for others and for all the
world, as well as for “me and mine.”
Richard L. Evans, “The Man and the Message” p. 289
The minute a man stops supplicating God for his spirit and directions just so soon he starts out to become a
stranger to him and his works. When men stop prating for God’s spirit, they place confidence in their own
unaided reason, and they gradually lose the spirit of God, just the same as near and dear friends, by never
writing to or visiting with each other, will become strangers. We should all pray that God may never leave us
alone for a moment without his spirit to aid and assist us in withstanding sin and temptation.
Heber J. Grant, “Conference Report” Oct. 1944
Personal revelation is not limited to gaining a testimony and knowing thereby that Jesus, through who the
gospel came, is Lord of all, nor is it limited to receiving guidance in our personal and family affairs-although
these are the most common examples of revelation among the Lord’s people. In truth and in verity, there is no
limit to the revelations each member of the Church may receive. It is within the power of every person who has
received the gift of the Holy Ghost to see visions, entertain angels, learn the deep and hidden mysteries of the
kingdom, and even see the face of God.
Bruce R. McConkie, “A New Witness for the Articles of Faith” p. 489
Many times I have prayed to my Father in heaven that he would help me to do my work. I hope that I may pray
more and more effectively that I may help Him to do His work, and by that means express to Him the
appreciation that I feel for all of the blessings of my life.
Sterling W. Sill, “Conference Report” April 1954
If you feel that Heavenly Father is not listening to your petitions, ask yourself if you are listening to the cries of
the poor, the sick, the hungry, and the afflicted all around you.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, Ensign May 2001
Priesthood
We who hold the priesthood of God must stand above the ways of the world. We must discipline ourselves. We
cannot be self-righteous, but we can and must be decent, honorable men.
Our behavior in public must be above reproach. Our behavior in private is even more important. It must clear
the standard set by the Lord. We cannot indulge in sin, let alone try to cover our sins. We cannot gratify our
pride. We cannot partake of the vanity of unrighteous ambition. We cannot exercise control, or dominion, or
compulsion upon our wives or children, or any others in any degree of unrighteousness.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Personal Worthiness to Exercise the Priesthood” Ensign May 2002
There is the natural tendency to look at those who are sustained to presiding positions, to consider them to be
higher and of more value in the Church or to their families than an ordinary member. Somehow we feel they are
worth more to the Lord than are we. It just does not work that way!
It would be very disappointing to my wife and to me if we supposed any one of our children would think that we
think we are of more worth to the family or to the Church than they are, or to think that one calling in the
Priesthood
Church was esteemed over another or that any calling would be thought to be less important.
Boyd K. Packer, “The Weak and the Simple of the Church” Ensign Nov. 2007
The future progress of the Church, and, in fact, the future of the world, depends on how we magnify the office
which we hold in the priesthood.
N. Eldon Tanner, “For They Loved the Praise of Men More Than the Praise of God” Ensign Nov. 1975
In this Church, every man who lives a worthy life may be ordained to the holy priesthood. And with that
ordination comes a tremendous responsibility. You men who hold the priesthood of God, are you living worthy
of it? Are you living in such a way that the power of the Almighty may be expressed through you? Are you the
kind of husband that you ought to be to your wife? Do you speak to her with kindness, respect, and love? The
greatest thing you will ever have in this life is the companionship of your beloved wife. Never abuse her. Never
speak down to her. Always lift her up and sustain her. Let every woman be able to say, ‘I am so grateful for my
husband, whom I love and who I know loves me.’ Are you worthy as one who holds the priesthood to lay hands
on the heads of the sick, to anoint them with consecrated oil, to give them a blessing for the restoration of their
health? Are you living in such a way? Are you keeping sin out of your lives to be worthy of this marvelous
power? Are you worthy, as those who hold the priesthood, to participate in the governance of the Church, to
serve in whatever capacity you may be called to serve, and to give it your very best effort?
Gordon B. Hinckley. “Latter-day Counsel: Excerpts from Recent Addresses” Ensign July 1999
…the kingdom of God is governed by the authority of the priesthood. It is not conferred for honor, but for a
ministry of service. Priesthood titles are not created by man; neither are they for adornment, nor do they
express mastership. They denote appointment to service in the work of the Lord. We are called, sustained, and
ordained—not by ourselves, but “by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to
preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.” (A of F 1:5; see also Heb. 5:4.)
Russell M. Nelson, “Honoring the Priesthood” Ensign May 1993
Brethren, we must never let the great powers of the holy priesthood of God lie dormant in us. We are bound
together in the greatest cause and the most sacred work in all the world. To exercise these great powers, we
must be clean in thought and action. We must do nothing which would impair the full exercise of this
transcendent power.
James E. Faust, “Power of the Priesthood” Ensign May 1997
I repeat, brethren: Ordinary men, blessed with the privilege of holding the priesthood of God, may be called
upon to do extraordinary tasks and accomplish mighty feats through faith in that sacred power!
Jack H. Goaslind, “In His Strength I Can Do All Things” Ensign May 1997
So it is not enough to receive the priesthood and then sit back passively and wait until someone prods us into
activity. When we receive the priesthood, we have the obligation of becoming actively and anxiously engaged in
promoting the cause of righteousness in the earth.”
Ezra Taft Benson, “Conference Report” Oct. 1948
The Priesthood is usually simply defined as “the power of God delegated to man.” This definition, I think, is
accurate. But for practical purposes I like to define the Priesthood in terms of service and I frequently call it “the
perfect plan of service.” I do so because it seems to me that it is only through the utilization of the divine power
conferred on men that they may ever hope to realize the full import and vitality of this endowment. It is an
instrument of service…and the man who fails to use it is apt to lose it, for we are plainly told by revelation that
he who neglects it shall not be counted worthy to stand.
Prophets - Protection
I can well imagine such a man going into the presence of the great Eternal Judge and saying in substance, “While
I was on earth I was a High Priest. I come now to claim the reward of a High Priest.” I think it is not difficult to
suppose what may be His answer. He will likely be met with such questions as these, “What did you do when
you were a High Priest? How did you use this great power which you held? Whom did you bless with it?” Upon is
reply to such interrogatories as these will his reward be predicted.
Stephen L. Richards, “Conference Report” April 1937
Prophets
Prophets say the same things because we face basically the same problems. Brothers and sisters, the solutions
to these problems have not changed. It would be a poor lighthouse that gave off a different signal to guide every
ship entering a harbor. It would be a poor mountain guide who, knowing the safe route up a mountainside, took
his trusting charges up unpredictable and perilous paths from which no traveler returns.
Spencer W. Kimball, “The Stone Cut Without Hands” Ensign May 1976
Prosperity
God recognizes only one justification for seeking wealth, and that is with the express intent of helping the poor.
Hugh Nibley, “Of All Things” p. 209
Protection
I testify of angels, both the heavenly and the mortal kind. In doing so I am testifying that God never leaves us
alone, never leaves us unaided in the challenges that we face. “*N+or will he, so long as time shall last, or the
earth shall stand, or there shall be one man *or woman or child+ upon the face thereof to be saved.” On
occasions, global or personal, we may feel we are distanced from God, shut out from heaven, lost, alone in dark
and dreary places. Often enough that distress can be of our own making, but even then the Father of us all is
watching and assisting. And always there are those angels who come and go all around us, seen and unseen,
known and unknown, mortal and immortal.
May we all believe more readily in, and have more gratitude for, the Lord’s promise as contained in one of
President Monson’s favorite scriptures: “I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left,
… my Spirit shall be in your *heart+, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.” In the process of praying
for those angels to attend us, may we all try to be a little more angelic ourselves—with a kind word, a strong
arm, a declaration of faith and “the covenant wherewith *we+ have covenanted.” Perhaps then we can be
emissaries sent from God.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Ministry of Angels” Ensign Nov. 2008
Relief Society - Repentance
Relief Society
Too frequently, women underestimate their influence for good. Well could you follow the formula given by the
Lord: “Establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a
house of glory, a house of order, a house of God.” (D&C 88:119.)
In such a house will be found happy, smiling children who have been taught, by precept and example, the truth.
In a Latter-day Saint home, children are not simply tolerated, but welcomed; not commanded, but encouraged;
not driven, but guided; not neglected, but loved.
Thomas S. Monson, “The Spirit of Relief Society” Ensign May 1992
Repentance
Repentance is a divine gift, and there should be a smile on our faces when we speak of it. It points us to
freedom, confidence, and peace. Rather than interrupting the celebration, the gift of repentance is the cause for
true celebration.
D. Todd Christofferson, “The Divine Gift of Repentance” Ensign Nov. 2011
When we sin and desire forgiveness, a broken heart and a contrite spirit mean to experience “godly sorrow
[that] worketh repentance” (2 Corinthians 7:10). This comes when our desire to be cleansed from sin is so
consuming that our hearts ache with sorrow and we yearn to feel at peace with our Father in Heaven. Those
who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit are willing to do anything and everything that God asks of them,
without resistance or resentment. We cease doing things our way and learn to do them God’s way instead. In
such a condition of submissiveness, the Atonement can take effect and true repentance can occur. The penitent
will then experience the sanctifying power of the Holy Ghost, which will fill them with peace of conscience and
the joy of reconciliation with God. In a wondrous union of divine attributes, the same God who teaches us to
walk with a broken heart invites us to rejoice and to be of good cheer.
Bruce D. Porter, “A Broken Heart and a Contrite Spirit” Ensign Nov. 2007
So the question of questions is: What makes people repent? As near as I have been able to determine, once a
person has sufficient faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that he believes Christ has paid for his sins, then he will
repent. And it seems that very few, if any, will repent until they believe this truth. Therefore, it is vital to teach
the truth about Jesus Christ as the literal son of God and our Lord and Savior and Redeemer in order to bring
souls to repentance. Faith in Jesus Christ unto repentance is the saving power of the gospel of Jesus Christ. (See
Alma 34:16.)
Hartman Rector Jr., “The Resurrection” Ensign Nov. 1990
Contrition is costly—it costs us our pride and our insensitivity, but it especially costs us our sins. For, as King
Lamoni’s father knew twenty centuries ago, this is the price of true hope. “O God,” he cried, “wilt thou make
thyself known unto me, and I will give away all my sins to know thee … that I may be raised from the dead, and
be saved at the last day.” (Alma 22:18.) When we, too, are willing to give away all our sins to know him and
follow him, we, too, will be filled with the joy of eternal life.
Howard W. Hunter, “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee” Ensign May 1993
Repentance
The invitation to repent is rarely a voice of chastisement but rather a loving appeal to turn around and to “return” toward God. It is the beckoning of a loving Father and His Only Begotten Son to be more than we are, to
reach up to a higher way of life, to change, and to feel the happiness of keeping the commandments. Being
disciples of Christ, we rejoice in the blessing of repenting and the joy of being forgiven. They become part of us,
shaping the way we think and feel.
Neil L. Andersen, “Repent…That I May Heal You” Ensign Nov. 2009
No one can go back and make a brand new start.
Anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.
Unknown
Can’t you see that to continue to suffer for sins, when there has been proper repentance and forgiveness of the
Lord, is not prompted by the Savior but by the master of deceit, whose goal has always been to bind and enslave
the children of our Father in Heaven? Satan would encourage you to continue to relive the details of past
mistakes, knowing that such thoughts make progress, growth, and service difficult to attain. It is as though Satan
ties strings to the mind and body so that he can manipulate one like a puppet, discouraging personal
achievement.
I testify that Jesus Christ paid the price and satisfied the demands of justice for all who are obedient to His
teachings. Thus, full forgiveness is granted, and the distressing effects of sin need no longer persist in one’s life.
Indeed, they cannot persist if one truly understands the meaning of Christ’s Atonement.
Richard G. Scott, “We Love You—Please Come Back” Ensign May 1986
All of us, like Enos, need to continually have our sins and weaknesses swept away through repentance,
confession, and sincere prayer. I repeat the Lord’s promise: “Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same
is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.
“By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them” (D&C
58:42–43).
Repentance will purify and cleanse the mind and body and make room for greater perfection and godliness.
Bernard P. Brockbank, “Prayer to Our Heavenly Father” Ensign Nov. 1979
If any has stumbled in his journey, there is a way back. The process is called repentance. Our Savior died to
provide you and me that blessed gift. Though the path is difficult, the promise is real: “Though your sins be as
scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.”
Thomas S. Monson, “Preparation Brings Blessings” Ensign May 2010
There is no habit, no addiction, no rebellion, no transgression, no apostasy, no crime exempted from the
promise of complete forgiveness. That is the promise of the atonement of Christ.
Boyd K. Packer
Without earnest prayer, repentance and cleansing are not possible. When the door is opened by prayer, there is
possibility for peace.
One of the questions we must ask of our Heavenly Father in private prayer is this: “What have I done today, or
not done, which displeases Thee? If I can only know, I will repent with all my heart without delay.” That humble
prayer will be answered. And the answers will surely include the assurance that asking today was better than
Repentance
waiting to ask tomorrow.
Henry B. Eyring, “Do Not Delay” Ensign Nov. 1999
Generally we understand that, conditioned upon repentance, the ordinance of baptism washes our sins away.
Some wonder if they were baptized too soon. If only they could be baptized now and have a clean start. But that
is not necessary! Through the ordinance of the sacrament, you renew the covenants made at baptism. When
you meet all of the conditions of repentance, however difficult, you may be forgiven and your transgressions will
trouble your mind no more.
Boyd K. Packer, “Washed Clean” Ensign May 1997
Repentance is a process of cleansing. It is difficult, but it has an end, a glorious end with peace and refreshing
forgiveness and the miracle of a new beginning.
Richard G. Scott, “To Be Free of Heavy Burdens” Ensign Nov. 2002
Whatever the cost of repentance, it is swallowed up in the joy of forgiveness.
D. Todd Christofferson, “The Divine Gift of Repentance” Ensign Nov. 2011
When we sin, we injure our soul, and divine treatment is needed to make us whole again. Repentance provides
the condition that allows the Savior, through the power of the Atonement, to heal us (see 3 Nephi 9:13). If some
part of repentance is not comfortable—like a brace on a broken back—we need to repent anyway.
David L. Frischknecht, “Repent, Turn to the Lord, and Be Healed” Ensign April 2011
When we sin, we turn away from God. When we repent, we turn back toward God. The invitation to repent is
rarely a voice of chastisement but rather a loving appeal to turn around and to “re-turn” toward God.
Neil L. Andersen, “Repent … That I May Heal You” Ensign Nov. 2009
Everything in the gospel teaches us that we can change if we need to, that we can be helped if we truly want it,
that we can be made whole, whatever the problems of the past.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “He Hath Filled the Hungry with Good Things” Ensign Nov. 1997
First, the invitation to repent is an expression of love. When the Savior “began to preach, and to say, Repent: for
the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17), it was a message of love, inviting all who would to qualify to
join Him “and enjoy the words of eternal life in this world, and eternal life *itself+ in the world to come” (Moses
6:59). If we do not invite others to change or if we do not demand repentance of ourselves, we fail in a
fundamental duty we owe to one another and to ourselves. A permissive parent, an indulgent friend, a fearful
Church leader are in reality more concerned about themselves than the welfare and happiness of those they
could help. Yes, the call to repentance is at times regarded as intolerant or offensive and may even be resented,
but guided by the Spirit, it is in reality an act of genuine caring (see D&C 121:43–44).
D. Todd Christofferson, “The Divine Gift of Repentance” Ensign Nov. 2011
I will speak briefly of the principle of repentance. How grateful I am for the understanding we have of this great
principle. It is not a harsh principle, as I thought when I was a boy. It is kind and merciful. The Hebrew root of the
word means, simply, “to turn,” or to return, to God. Jehovah pled with the children of Israel: “Return … and I will
not cause mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful … and I will not keep anger forever. Only acknowledge
thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God.”
When we acknowledge our sins, confess them and forsake them, and turn to God, He will forgive us.
Richard G. Hinckley, “Repentance, a Blessing of Membership” Ensign May 2006
Repentance
Repentance is not optional. An angel commanded Adam to “repent and call upon God in the name of the Son
forevermore.” 2 Each one of us is commanded to both repent and to call upon God continually throughout life.
That pattern allows each day to be an unspoiled page in the book of life, a new, fresh opportunity. We are given
the rejuvenating privilege of overcoming mistakes of commission or omission, be they small or profoundly
serious. Full repentance results in forgiveness with spiritual renewal. One can feel the cleansing, the purity, the
freshness that accompanies sincere repentance at any time in life.
Richard G. Scott, “The Path to Peace and Joy” Ensign Nov. 2000
The blessing of true, sincere, continuing repentance, [is] the path to peace and joy. It is a conduit to the
reforming power of the Lord and, when understood and used, a dear and precious friend.
Richard G. Scott, “The Path to Peace and Joy” Ensign Nov. 2000
Without repentance, there is no real progress or improvement in life. Pretending there is no sin does not lessen
its burden and pain. Suffering for sin does not by itself change anything for the better. Only repentance leads to
the sunlit uplands of a better life.
D. Todd Christofferson, “The Divine Gift of Repentance” Ensign Nov. 2011
I warn you of a pervasive false doctrine. For want of a better name, I call it ‘premeditated repentance,’ by which
I mean consciously sinning with the forethought that afterward repentance will permit the enjoyment of the full
blessings of the gospel, such as temple marriage or a mission. In an increasingly wicked society, it is harder to
toy with evil without becoming contaminated.
James E. Faust, “Finding Light in a Dark World” p. 105-106
It is through repentance that the Lord Jesus Christ can work his healing miracle, infusing us with strength when
we are weak, health when we are sick, hope when we are downhearted, love when we feel empty,
understanding when we search for truth.
Spencer W. Kimball, Ensign March 1980
How can I know if and when I have been forgiven of my sins?
1. Feeling joy is one indication that we are returning to the right path. Alma taught that “wickedness never
was happiness” (Alma 41:10). It is impossible to feel joy and sorrow simultaneously, so it is safe to
assume that when our hearts are filled with joy we are in the process of overcoming wickedness.
2. A second sign Benjamin’s people had received a remission of sins was that they had peace of conscience
(see Mosiah 4:3). We may not forget all our sins, but if we have truly repented, we will remember them
with a peaceful conscience and be “harrowed up by the memory of *our+ sins no more” (Alma 36:19).
3. When we repent we are filled with the love of God (see Mosiah 4:12). Hearts that are filled with love are
full. There is no room for hatred, revenge, discouragement, or fear.
4. We do not have “a mind to injure one another” or even to allow our children to “fight and quarrel one
with another” (Mosiah 4:13–14).
5. A sign that we are inclined to impart of our substance to others in need (see Mosiah 4:16–21). The
Savior lifted the burdens of others; we will desire to do the same.
6. A mark of true repentance is that we have “no more disposition to do evil” (Mosiah 5:2).
Spencer J. Condie, “Feast upon the Words of Christ” Ensign Sept. 2004
The Atonement is like an eraser. It can wipe away guilt and the effect of whatever it is that is causing you to feel
guilty. Guilt is spiritual pain. Do not suffer from chronic pain. Get rid of it. Be done with it. Repent and, if
Repentance
necessary, repent again and again and again and again until the enemy is not in charge of you.
Boyd K. Packer, Ensign Oct. 2012
For any whose lives are not in order, remember, it is never too late to make the Savior’s Atonement the
foundation of our faith and lives.
Quentin L. Cook, Ensign Oct. 2012
If we have sinned or made mistakes—if we have made choices that we now regret—there is the precious gift of
Christ’s Atonement, through which we can be forgiven. We cannot go back in time and change the past, but we
can repent. The Savior can wipe away our tears of regret and remove the burden of our sins. His Atonement
allows us to leave the past behind and move forward with clean hands, a pure heart, and a determination to do
better and especially to become better.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Ensign Nov. 2012
Repentance and Sanctification from Pure Before Thee by C. Robert Line
2 Nephi 25:23, 26, 29
Justification (Repentance)
An event in time
To turn, to change your mind. Desire to change.
Forgiven of sin
Blameless
Justified. Declared Innocent.
Getting on the path
Perfect in Christ
Repentance
Free from the taint of sin
Cleaning the inner vessel
Time frame: immediate
Change of behavior
Sanctification
A process
No more desire to do evil. Change of heart.
Free from sinfulness
Pure
Becoming holy
Moving along the path
Perfect like Christ
Reborn of the Spirit
Free from sin’s tyranny
Christ fills the inner vessel
Time frame: throughout our lives
Change in our nature
p. 15 Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: You can change anything you want to change and you can do it very fast. Satan
says it takes years and years to repent. That’s just not true. It takes as long to repent as it takes to say, “I’ll
change” – and mean it.
p. 29 Meaning of repentance: turning of the heart and will to God, a renunciation of sin. Without this there can
be no progress toward salvation.
To be justified is to be forgiven; when we repent, Christ can justify us.
p. 57 Elder Richard G. Scott: If you have repented from serious transgression and mistakenly believe that you
will always be a second-class citizen in the kingdom of God, learn that is not true. Consider Alma the Younger
and the sons of Mosiah. If you continue to feel the burden of guilt, realize that to continue to suffer for your sins
when there has been proper repentance and forgiveness of the Lord is prompted by the master of deceit. Satan
will encourage you to continue relive the details of past mistakes.
p. 75-77 2 Nephi 25:23 It is by grace we are saved after all we can do. All we can do is to have faith, repent, be
baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, and do our best. Only Christ can save us.
Resurrection - Restoration
p. 89 The more we overcome sin, the greater our tolerance and love become for those in sin. Joseph Smith: “The
nearer we get to our Heavenly Father, the more we are disposed to look with compassion on perishing souls; we
feel that we want to take them upon our shoulders, and cast their sins behind our backs. If you would have God
have mercy on you, have mercy on one another.”
Resurrection
What kind of existence can we hope for? Those who come unto Christ, repent of their sins, and live in faith will
reside forever in peace. Think of the worth of this eternal gift. Surrounded by those we love, we will know the
meaning of ultimate joy as we progress in knowledge and in happiness. No matter how bleak the chapter of our
lives may look today, because of the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we may hope and be assured that the
ending of the book of our lives will exceed our grandest expectations. “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither
have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Infinite Power of Hope” Ensign Nov. 2008
Restoration
The Father’s plan of life, with its central focus on Christ’s Atonement, was prepared before the foundation of the
world (see Abr. 3:22–28; Alma 13:3). It was given to Adam and Eve, and they were commanded to teach it to
their children (see Moses 5:6–12). Over time, the posterity of Adam rejected the gospel, but it was renewed
through Noah and then again through Abraham (see Ex. 6:2–4; Gal. 3:6–9). The gospel was offered to the
Israelites in Moses’s day. But a sterner taskmaster was required to bring them to Christ, given centuries in
apostasy (see Ex. 19:5–6; D&C 84:19–24). The fullness of the gospel was finally restored to Israel by the Savior
Himself in the meridian of time.
Following the Savior’s death and those of His Apostles, doctrines and ordinances were changed, and apostasy
set in again. This time spiritual darkness lasted for hundreds of years before rays of light would once more
penetrate the earth.
The Lord directed the Restoration of the gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith. The “restitution of all things”
began in the Sacred Grove with the Father and the Son appearing to Joseph Smith.
Merrill J. Bateman, “A Pattern for All” Ensign Nov. 2005
The world around us is an increasingly hostile and sinful place. Occasionally that splashes onto us, and perhaps,
in the case of a few of you, it may be nearly drowning you. To anyone struggling under the burden of sin, I say
again with the Prophet Joseph that God has “a forgiving disposition” (Lectures on Faith, 42). You can change.
You can be helped. You can be made whole—whatever the problem.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Come Unto Me” Ensign April 1998
Sabbath
Sabbath
No matter where we live or in what position we serve, all of us need to determine which way we face. God’s
commandments serve as a standard against which priorities can be measured. Our respect for the first
commandment fashions our feelings for all the others. Consider the commandment to keep the Sabbath day
holy, for example. We live in a time when many people throughout the world have transferred their allegiance
on the Sabbath from places of worship to places of amusement. Again I ask, “Which way do you face?”
Scriptures give us encouragement to do right: “If thou turn away … from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and
call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, … and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding
thine own pleasure, …
“Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord.”
Russel M. Nelson, “Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods” Ensign May 1996
It is a great mistake to suppose that the man who goes off riding on Sunday obtains more rest than the man who
goes to meeting. There is a refreshing influence connected with the Spirit of the Lord that brings health and
strength and ease to those who receive it, and time spent in meeting, listening to the word of God and partaking
of the sacrament is well spent, and both body and spirit are refreshed. Men and women who thus observe the
Sabbath day are prepared on Monday morning, with invigorated bodies, enlightened and comforted minds, to
enter upon the serious labors of the week and to perform them with ease and pleasure. While in meeting and
under the influence of the Spirit of the Lord troubles and perplexities are cast away, burdens are lifted, anxieties
are removed and peace and joy fill the soul.
"Gospel Truth: Discourses and Writings of President George Q. Cannon," selected, arranged, and edited by
Jerreld L. Newquist, p.393
As another blessing, and a warning, I think of the counsel of President George Albert Smith, when he said,
“Much of the sorrow and distress that is afflicting … mankind is traceable to the fact that they have ignored
his*God’s+ admonition to keep the Sabbath day holy.”
Earl C. Tingey, “The Sabbath Day and Sunday Shopping” Ensign May 1996
We can readily see that observance of the Sabbath is an indication of the depth of our conversion.
Our observance or nonobservance of the Sabbath is an unerring measure of our attitude toward the Lord
personally and toward his suffering in Gethsemane, his death on the cross, and his resurrection from the dead. It
is a sign of whether we are Christians in very deed, or whether our conversion is so shallow that
commemoration of his atoning sacrifice means little or nothing to us.
Mark E. Petersen, “The Sabbath Day” Ensign May 1975
We constantly talk about the worldliness of the present day and speak of the fact that our young people face
more serious temptations than did those of a generation ago, and this is probably true. Also, more parents seem
to be caught up in the worldliness of today than was the case a generation ago.
What can we do to protect ourselves under these hazardous circumstances? How can we better help our young
people to remain unspotted from the world?
Sabbath
The Lord gives us the answer, and says that it can be done by sincerely observing the Sabbath day. Most people
have never thought of it in this way, but note the words of the Lord in this regard: “That thou mayest more fully
keep thyself unspotted from the world”—note these words—“that thou mayest more fully keep thyself
unspotted from the world, thou shalt go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day.”
(D&C 59:9.)
Mark E. Petersen, “The Sabbath Day” Ensign May 1975
The Sabbath is a holy day in which to do worthy and holy things. Abstinence from work and recreation is
important but insufficient. The Sabbath calls for constructive thoughts and acts, and if one merely lounges about
doing nothing on the Sabbath, he is breaking it. To observe it, one will be on his knees in prayer, preparing
lessons, studying the gospel, meditating, visiting the ill and distressed, sleeping, reading wholesome material,
and attending all the meetings of that day to which he is expected. To fail to do these proper things is a
transgression on the omission side.
Spencer W. Kimball, “The Miracle of Forgiveness” p. 96-97
If we were looking for some program to cure all of the problems that presently beset our world, we might well
find it by properly observing the Sabbath day. The importance of the Sabbath is prefigured in the account of
creation. In programming the seven creative periods, God set aside the seventh day as his Sabbath. And then in
our interests He especially blessed and hallowed this one day out of each week, which he ordained to be our
Sabbath day. And what a magnificent day it is when it is used as he intended.
Sterling W. Sill, “Conference Report” October 1969
May I mention two or three other messages which seem no longer popular? One is to respect the Sabbath day.
While the Savior himself cautioned against extreme forms of Sabbath day observance, it is well to remember
whose day the Sabbath is. There seems to be an ever-increasing popularity in disregarding the centuries-old
commandment to observe and respect the Sabbath day. For many it has become a holiday rather than a holy
day of rest and sanctification. For some it is a day to shop and buy groceries. The decision of those who engage
in shopping, sports, work, and recreation on the Sabbath day is their own, for which they alone bear
responsibility.
James E. Faust, “Unwanted Messages” Ensign Nov. 1986
We have become largely a world of Sabbath breakers. On the Sabbath the lakes are full of boats, the beaches
are crowded, the shows have their best attendance, the golf links are dotted with players. The Sabbath is the
preferred day for rodeos, conventions, family picnics; even ball games are played on the sacred day. “Business
as usual” is the slogan for many, and our holy day has become a holiday. And because so many people treat the
day as a holiday, numerous others cater to the wants of the fun-lovers and money-makers.
Spencer W. Kimball, “The Sabbath—A Delight” Ensign Jan. 1978
Sacrament
Sacrament
The weekly opportunity of partaking of the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper is one of the most sacred ordinances
of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is further indication of His love for all of us. Associated
with the partaking of the sacrament are principles that are fundamental to man’s advancement and exaltation in
the kingdom of God and the shaping of one’s spiritual character. We should reflect in our own weekday conduct
the spiritual renewal and commitments made on Sunday. We may fail to recognize the deep spiritual
significance this ordinance offers to each of us personally. Is it possible that a casual attitude on our part of
routine formality of this sacred occasion might deaden our opportunity for spiritual growth?
We all have regrets for words or deeds or thoughts from Sabbath to Sabbath that we would like to erase from
our souls. Perhaps we have erred against someone or injured them; or, if there is ill feeling in our heart, we
should repent, obtain forgiveness from those affected or transgressed against, then humbly, with a contrite
spirit, prepare ourselves to be worthy to partake of the sacrament. If we have sincerely repented, we can be
forgiven, and spiritual healing can come to our souls. You and I have felt it.
David B. Haight, “The Sacrament” Ensign May 1983
By participating weekly and appropriately in the ordinance of the sacrament we qualify for the promise that we
will “always have his Spirit to be with *us+” (D&C 20:77). That Spirit is the foundation of our testimony. It testifies
of the Father and the Son, brings all things to our remembrance, and leads us into truth.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Sacrament Meeting and the Sacrament” Ensign Nov. 2008
What an inspiration and strength it gives to know there is someone who is so interested in us that if we will take
upon us his name and keep his commandments, he, in turn, promises that his spirit shall abide with us. In the
many trials and temptations of life, what a source of comfort this promise gives. When partaken of often and in
the proper spirit, it is a safeguard against evil, and we shall develop an intimate fellowship with God and with
one another. It will give us a richness of spirit, and it will uplift, ennoble and develop an active, living faith within
us.
John Wells, “Conference Report” October 1936
Windows must be washed regularly to clean away dust and dirt. If left to accumulate without regular cleaning,
thickening grime can block out light and darken the window. Just as earthly windows need consistent, thorough
cleaning, so do the windows of our spirituality.
Weekly sacrament meeting attendance helps us strengthen our resolve to keep our personal windows of heaven
free from the obscuring haze of earthly distractions and temptations. By partaking of the sacrament worthily to
renew our baptismal covenants, we clarify our view of life’s eternal purpose and divine priorities. The sacrament
prayers invite personal introspection, repentance, and rededication as we pledge our willingness to remember
our Savior, Jesus the Christ. This commitment to become like Christ, repeated weekly, defines the supreme
aspiration of Latter-day Saint life.
Frequent temple attendance, as our circumstances allow, is another way to keep our spiritual windows clean.
Worship in the house of the Lord will keep our view of what matters most clear and sharp, focused crisply, and
free from the dust of the world.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Windows of Light and Truth” Ensign Nov. 1995
Sacrament - Sacrifice
One good but mistaken man I know claimed he could get more out of a good book on Sunday than he could get
in attending church services, saying that the sermons were hardly up to his standards. But we do not go to
Sabbath meetings to be entertained or even solely to be instructed. We go to worship the Lord. It is an
individual responsibility, and regardless of what is said from the pulpit, if one wishes to worship the Lord in spirit
and in truth, he may do so by attending his meetings, partaking of the sacrament, and contemplating the
beauties of the gospel. If the service is a failure to you, you have failed. No one can worship for you; you must do
your own waiting upon the Lord.
Spencer W. Kimball, “The Sabbath—A Delight” Ensign Jan. 1978
Whenever we partake of the sacrament of the Lord’s supper, we do the same thing, don’t we? We make a
commitment to the Almighty that not only are we going to be Latter-day Saints, but that we will always
remember the Lord Jesus Christ, and we will always keep the commandments that he has given us, and we seal
that pledge, or covenant, or commitment, by partaking of the emblems of the crucifixion. In that way we
commit ourselves to the Lord and actually say to the Almighty that ‘by these sacred emblems we here and now
commit ourselves unto Thee. We covenant with Thee; we pledge to Thee that we will always remember the Lord
Jesus Christ and always keep the commandments which he has given us.’
Mark E. Petersen, “BYU Speeches of the Year” Oct. 1962
We are a covenant people. I have had the feeling that if we could just encourage our people to live by three or
four covenants everything else would take care of itself; we would not have to have anything else except to go
forward with our program.
The first of these is the covenant of the sacrament, in which we take upon ourselves the name of the Savior and
agree to keep His commandments with the promise in His covenant that He will bless us with His spirit. If our
people would go to sacrament meeting every week and reflect as they partake of the sacrament on the meaning
of the prayers which are offered … if they would listen to the language of those prayers, which were given by
revelation, and live by them, we would be a better people, all of us would be. That is the importance of the
sacrament meeting. The speakers are incidental. The great thing is that we gather together and partake of the
sacrament together.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley” p. 146
Sacrifice
The incomprehensible suffering of Jesus Christ ended sacrifice by the shedding of blood, but it did not end the
importance of sacrifice in the gospel plan. Our Savior requires us to continue to offer sacrifices, but the sacrifices
He now commands are that we “offer for a sacrifice unto *Him+ a broken heart and a contrite spirit” (3 Nephi
9:20). He also commands each of us to love and serve one another—in effect, to offer a small imitation of His
own sacrifice by making sacrifices of our own time and selfish priorities.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Sacrifice” Ensign May 2012
Salvation - Scriptures
Salvation
The world seems to think that they can come whenever they are ready. Our Father’s children do not understand
that there is some preparation to be made. The adversary has so deceived them as to make them believe that
no preparation is necessary, anything will do, but in this message that the Savior gave in a parable to his
associates we are informed that there must be some preparation, and without that preparation no one will be
permitted to partake of the more precious gifts of our Heavenly Father. That applies to the membership of this
Church who have an idea that because they have been invited, and because their names appear upon the record
among those who have been called, there is nothing more for them to do. … They have forgotten the Lord and
are not preparing for the feast to which he has invited them.
Our Heavenly Father intends that we shall prepare for the wedding feast or we will be excluded. He expects us
to continue to store our minds with the truth, and to disseminate that truth as opportunity offers among all his
children. The fact that our names appear upon the Church records is no guarantee that we will find our place in
the celestial kingdom. Only those who live worthy to be members of that kingdom shall find place there.
George Albert Smith, “Chapter 1: Living What We Believe”
Scriptures
Just as continuing revelation enlarges and illuminates the scriptures, so also a study of the scriptures enables
men and women to receive revelations. Elder Bruce R. McConkie said, “I sometimes think that one of the bestkept secrets of the kingdom is that the scriptures open the door to the receipt of revelation” (Doctrines of the
Restoration, ed. Mark L. McConkie, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1989, p. 243). This happens because scripture
reading puts us in tune with the Spirit of the Lord.
The idea that scripture reading can lead to inspiration and revelation opens the door to the truth that a scripture
is not limited to what it meant when it was written but may also include what that scripture means to a reader
today. Even more, scripture reading may also lead to current revelation on whatever else the Lord wishes to
communicate to the reader at that time. We do not overstate the point when we say that the scriptures can be a
Urim and Thummim to assist each of us to receive personal revelation.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Scripture Reading and Revelation” Ensign Jan. 1995
Hear the voice of the Lord. Communication from the Lord about divine truth or spiritual knowledge is found in
the scriptures. It is called revelation—literally, “to make known or uncover” (Bible Dictionary, “Revelation,” 762).
It is given to “know how to worship, and know what you worship” (D&C 93:19). Elder Neal A. Maxwell said,
“Only with revelation can we do the Lord’s work according to His will in His way and according to His timing”
(“Revelation,” First Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, Jan. 2003, 5). “Without revelation, all would be
guesswork, darkness, and confusion” (Bible Dictionary, 762).
Charles Didier, “Man’s Search for Divine Truth” Ensign Nov. 2005
Neither the Bible nor the Book of Mormon in and of themselves is sufficient. Both are necessary for us to teach
and learn about the full and complete doctrine of Christ. The need for the other does not diminish either one of
them. Both the Bible and the Book of Mormon are necessary for our salvation and exaltation. As President Ezra
Taft Benson so powerfully taught, “When used together, the Bible and the Book of Mormon confound false
Scriptures
doctrines” (“A New Witness for Christ,” Ensign, Nov. 1984, 8).
L. Tom Perry, “The Power of Deliverance” Ensign April 2012
I add my voice to these wise and inspired brethren and say to you that one of the most important things you can
do as priesthood leaders is to immerse yourselves in the scriptures. Search them diligently. Feast upon the
words of Christ. Learn the doctrine. Master the principles that are found therein. There are few other efforts
that will bring greater dividends to your calling. There are few other ways to gain greater inspiration as you
serve.
But that alone, as valuable as it is, is not enough. You must also bend your efforts and your activities to
stimulating meaningful scripture study among the members of the Church. Often we spend great effort in trying
to increase the activity levels in our stakes. We work diligently to raise the percentages of those attending
sacrament meetings. We labor to get a higher percentage of our young men on missions. We strive to improve
the numbers of those marrying in the temple. All of these are commendable efforts and important to the growth
of the kingdom. But when individual members and families immerse themselves in the scriptures regularly and
consistently, these other areas of activity will automatically come. Testimonies will increase. Commitment will
be strengthened. Families will be fortified. Personal revelation will flow.
Ezra Taft Benson, “The Power of the Word” Ensign May 1986
One Protestant scholar has inquired tellingly into the erroneous doctrine of a closed canon. He writes: “On what
biblical or historical grounds has the inspiration of God been limited to the written documents that the church
now calls its Bible? … If the Spirit inspired only the written documents of the first century, does that mean that
the same Spirit does not speak today in the church about matters that are of significant concern?” We humbly
ask those same questions.
Continuing revelation does not demean or discredit existing revelation. The Old Testament does not lose its
value in our eyes when we are introduced to the New Testament, and the New Testament is only enhanced
when we read the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ. In considering the additional scripture
accepted by Latter-day Saints, we might ask: Were those early Christians who for decades had access only to the
primitive Gospel of Mark (generally considered the first of the New Testament Gospels to be written)—were
they offended to receive the more detailed accounts set forth later by Matthew and Luke, to say nothing of the
unprecedented passages and revelatory emphasis offered later yet by John? Surely they must have rejoiced that
ever more convincing evidence of the divinity of Christ kept coming. And so do we rejoice.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “My Words…Never Cease” Ensign May 2008
If you pray for an angel to visit you, you know what he’ll do if he comes. He’ll just quote the scriptures to you –
so you know you’re wasting your time waiting for what we already have. Though you are amused by my saying
this, I’m quite serious about it.
Hugh Nibley, “Of All Things” p.80
Service
Service
Along your pathway of life you will observe that you are not the only traveler. There are others who need your
help. There are feet to steady, hands to grasp, minds to encourage, hearts to inspire, and souls to save.
Thomas S. Monson, “A Time to Choose” Ensign May 1995
The Savior will let you feel the love He feels for those you serve. The call is an invitation to become like Him.
Henry B. Eyring, Ensign May 2000
Some of you may be shy by nature or consider yourselves inadequate to respond affirmatively to the call to
serve. Remember that this is the Lord’s work, and when we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the
Lord’s help. The Lord will shape the back to bear the burden placed upon it.
Thomas S. Monson, "The Lord Needs Missionaries"
Often we live side by side but do not communicate heart to heart. There are those within the sphere of our own
influence who, with outstretched hands, cry out, “Is there no balm in Gilead?”
I am confident it is the intention of each member of the Church to serve and to help those in need. At baptism
we covenanted to “bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light.” How many times has your heart been
touched as you have witnessed the need of another? How often have you intended to be the one to help? And
yet how often has day-to-day living interfered and you’ve left it for others to help, feeling that “oh, surely
someone will take care of that need.”
We become so caught up in the busyness of our lives. Were we to step back, however, and take a good look at
what we’re doing, we may find that we have immersed ourselves in the “thick of thin things.” In other words,
too often we spend most of our time taking care of the things which do not really matter much at all in the
grand scheme of things, neglecting those more important causes.
Thomas S. Monson, “What Have I Done for Someone Today?” Ensign Nov. 2009
If you feel that Heavenly Father is not listening to your petitions, ask yourself if you are listening to the cries of
the poor, the sick, the hungry, and the afflicted all around you.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, Ensign May 2001
God does not begin by asking us about our ability, but only about our availability, and if we then prove our
dependability, he will increase our capability!
Neal A. Maxwell, “It’s Service, Not Status, That Counts” Ensign July 1975
I think of our Lord and Exemplar, Jesus Christ, and His short life among the people of Galilee and Jerusalem. I
have tried to imagine Him bustling between meetings or multitasking to get a list of urgent things accomplished.
I can’t see it.
Instead I see the compassionate and caring Son of God purposefully living each day. When He interacted with
those around Him, they felt important and loved. He knew the infinite value of the people He met. He blessed
them, ministered to them. He lifted them up, healed them. He gave them the precious gift of His time.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Of Regrets and Resolutions” Ensign Nov. 2012
Service
A willing heart describes one who desires to please the Lord and to serve His cause first. He serves the Lord on
the Lord’s terms, not his own. There are no restrictions to where or how he will serve.
What does the Lord require for service? A willing heart and intense desire.
Marvin J. Ashton, “The Measure of Our Hearts” Ensign Nov. 1988
A life can never be happy that is focused inward. So if you are miserable now, forget your troubles. March right
out your door, and find someone who needs you.
You want happiness? Find ways to serve. Your happiness will be commensurate with the service you render.
Robert L. Backmanm, “As I Have Loved You” Ensign Nov. 1985
We each have a covenant responsibility to be sensitive to the needs of others and serve as the Savior did—to
reach out, bless, and uplift those around us.
Often, the answer to our prayer does not come while we’re on our knees but while we’re on our feet serving the
Lord and serving those around us. Selfless acts of service and consecration refine our spirits, remove the scales
from our spiritual eyes, and open the windows of heaven. By becoming the answer to someone’s prayer, we
often find the answer to our own.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Waiting on the Road to Damascus” Ensign May 2011
President Thomas S. Monson remembered the promised words of the Savior as he blessed me six months ago to
stand fearlessly in my calling when it seemed hard. These words of the Savior, which He gave to His tiny band of
priesthood holders in this dispensation, came to the prophet’s mind as he laid his hands on my head: “And
whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your
left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.”
The promise which President Monson remembered and quoted was fulfilled for me. Confidence replaced doubt,
the Spirit came, medical helpers were inspired, my life was preserved, and I was borne up. Because of that
blessing by President Monson, it will always be easy for me to remember the Savior and trust His promise that
He goes before and beside us in His service.
I know that the promise of angels to bear us up is real. You might want to bring to memory the assurance of
Elisha to his frightened servant. That assurance is ours when we feel close to being overwhelmed in our service.
Henry B. Eyring, “O Ye That Embark” Ensign Nov. 2008
I have learned that it is by serving that we learn how to serve. When we are engaged in the service of our
fellowmen, not only do our deeds assist them, but we put our own problems in a fresher perspective. When we
concern ourselves more with others, there is less time to be concerned with ourselves.
God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs.
Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other in the kingdom. The people of the Church need each other’s
strength, support, and leadership in a community of believers as an enclave of disciples. In the Doctrine and
Covenants we read about how important it is to “… succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and
strengthen the feeble knees.” (D&C 81:5.) So often, our acts of service consist of simple encouragement or of
giving mundane help with mundane tasks, but what glorious consequences can flow from mundane acts and
from small but deliberate deeds!
Spencer W. Kimball, “Small Acts of Service” Ensign Dec. 1974
Sin - Temple
We each have a covenant responsibility to be sensitive to the needs of others and serve as the Savior did—to
reach out, bless, and uplift those around us. Often, the answer to our prayer does not come while we’re on our
knees but while we’re on our feet serving the Lord and serving those around us. Selfless acts of service and
consecration refine our spirits, remove the scales from our spiritual eyes, and open the windows of heaven. By
becoming the answer to someone’s prayer, we often find the answer to our own.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Ensign, May 2011
Sin
When we sin, we turn away from God. When we repent, we turn back toward God. The invitation to repent is
rarely a voice of chastisement but rather a loving appeal to turn around and to “re-turn” toward God.
Neil L. Andersen, “Repent … That I May Heal You” Ensign Nov. 2009
Sin is the willful transgression of divine law. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the gift of God to His children to
correct and overcome the consequences of sin.
The gift of the Atonement of Jesus Christ provides us at all times and at all places with the blessings of
repentance and forgiveness.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Point of Safe Return” Ensign May 2007
Spirit
The spiritual body and the mind, like the physical body, are made up of what they feed upon. On a recent trip,
my wife and I drank some water that we were unused to, and we were sick for several weeks. The mind is like
that. It, too, is made up of what it feeds upon. The spirit is influenced by what the body and the mind feed upon.
James M. Paramore, “Hold On!” Ensign Nov. 1996
Temple
In holy places and in sacred space we find spiritual refuge, renewal, hope, and peace. Are these not worth every
necessary personal sacrifice? My brethren and sisters, may each of us revere and respect the holy and sacred in
our lives. May we teach our children likewise. Let us all stand in holy and sacred places of spiritual peace.
Dennis B. Neuenschwander, “Holy Place, Sacred Place” Ensign May 2003
Windows must be washed regularly to clean away dust and dirt. If left to accumulate without regular cleaning,
thickening grime can block out light and darken the window. Just as earthly windows need consistent, thorough
cleaning, so do the windows of our spirituality.
Weekly sacrament meeting attendance helps us strengthen our resolve to keep our personal windows of heaven
free from the obscuring haze of earthly distractions and temptations. By partaking of the sacrament worthily to
renew our baptismal covenants, we clarify our view of life’s eternal purpose and divine priorities. The sacrament
prayers invite personal introspection, repentance, and rededication as we pledge our willingness to remember
our Savior, Jesus the Christ. This commitment to become like Christ, repeated weekly, defines the supreme
aspiration of Latter-day Saint life.
Temple
Frequent temple attendance, as our circumstances allow, is another way to keep our spiritual windows clean.
Worship in the house of the Lord will keep our view of what matters most clear and sharp, focused crisply, and
free from the dust of the world.
Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Windows of Light and Truth” Ensign Nov. 1995
Cultivate and be where the Spirit of the Lord is. Make sure that includes your own home or apartment, dictating
the kind of art, music, and literature you keep there. If you are endowed, go to the temple as often as your
circumstances allow. Remember that the temple arms you “with *God’s+ power, … *puts His+ glory … round
about [you], and [gives His+ angels … charge over *you+.” And when you leave the temple, remember the
symbols you take with you, never to be set aside or forgotten.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Place No More for the Enemy of My Soul” Ensign May 2010
Like you, I don’t want to lose any of my children. I want to be together forever with all of my family. The temple
gives all of us extra hope of continuing and improving these relationships, even after this life. Sealings bestowed
in the temple promise additional blessings.
“The Prophet Joseph Smith declared—and he never taught more comforting doctrine—that the eternal sealings
of faithful parents and the divine promises made to them for valiant service in the Cause of Truth, would save
not only themselves, but likewise their posterity. Though some of the sheep may wander, the eye of the
Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or later they will feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching out after
them and drawing them back to the fold. Either in this life or the life to come, they will return. They will have to
pay their debt to justice; they will suffer for their sins; and may tread a thorny path; but if it leads them at last,
like the penitent Prodigal, to a loving and forgiving father’s heart and home, the painful experience will not have
been in vain.”
Richard H. Winkel, “The Temple Is about Families” Ensign Nov. 2006
Worthiness to hold a temple recommend gives us the strength to keep our temple covenants. How do we
personally gain that strength? We strive to obtain a testimony of Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, the Holy Ghost,
the reality of the Atonement, and the truthfulness of the Prophet Joseph Smith and the Restoration. We sustain
our leaders, treat our families with kindness, stand as a witness of the Lord’s true Church, attend our Church
meetings, honor our covenants, fulfill parental obligations, and live a virtuous life. You may say that sounds like
just being a faithful Latter-day Saint! You are right. The standard for temple recommend holders is not too high
for us to achieve. It is simply to faithfully live the gospel and follow the prophets.
Robert D. Hales, “Coming to Ourselves: The Sacrament, the Temple, and Sacrifice in Service” Ensign May 2012
I urge all who have not yet received these greatest of all blessings within the walls of the temple to do whatever
may be necessary to qualify to receive them. To those who have received these blessings, I invite you to prepare
yourselves to savor again the experience of being within the sacred premises of the holy temples of God and
have the visions of life eternal open again to your hearts, minds, and souls.
James E. Faust, “Eternity Lies Before Us” Ensign May 1997
Every symbol, every teaching, every revealed principle is a reminder of his redeeming work, and every covenant
and every ordinance points to him as the Savior and Redeemer of mankind (see 2 Nephi 11:4; Heb. 5:9). As a
covenant people we ought to maintain ever present in our minds the fact of our fallen condition and live with
the sure hope of being forgiven of our sins and being drawn to God through the Savior.
Carlos H. Amado, “Learning to Live for Eternal Life” Ensign Aug. 1995
Temple
Everything that occurs in the temple is eternal in its consequences. We there deal with matters of immortality,
with things of eternity, with things of man and his relationship to his Divine Parent and his Redeemer. Hands
must be clean and hearts must be pure and thoughts concerned with the solemnities of eternity when in these
sacred premises.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Keeping the Temple Holy” Ensign May 1990
These unique and wonderful buildings, and the ordinances administered therein, represent the ultimate in our
worship. These ordinances become the most profound expressions of our theology. I urge our people
everywhere, with all of the persuasiveness of which I am capable, to live worthy to hold a temple recommend,
to secure one and regard it as a precious asset, and to make a greater effort to go to the house of the Lord and
partake of the spirit and the blessings to be had therein. I am satisfied that every man or woman who goes to
the temple in a spirit of sincerity and faith leaves the house of the Lord a better man or woman. There is need
for constant improvement in all of our lives. There is need occasionally to leave the noise and the tumult of the
world and step within the walls of a sacred house of God, there to feel His spirit in an environment of holiness
and peace.
If every man in this church who has been ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood were to qualify himself to
hold a temple recommend, and then were to go to the house of the Lord and renew his covenants in solemnity
before God and witnesses, we would be a better people. There would be little or no infidelity among us. Divorce
would almost entirely disappear. So much of heartache and heartbreak would be avoided. There would be a
greater measure of peace and love and happiness in our homes. There would be fewer weeping wives and
weeping children. There would be a greater measure of appreciation and of mutual respect among us. And I am
confident the Lord would smile with greater favor upon us.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Of Missions, Temples, and Stewardships” Ensign Oct. 1995
A temple is a place in which those whom He has chosen are endowed with power from on high—a power which
enables us to use our gifts and capabilities with greater intelligence and increased effectiveness in order to bring
to pass our Heavenly Father’s purposes in our own lives and the lives of those we love.
Come to the temples worthily and regularly. Not only do you bless those who are deceased, but you may freely
partake of the promised personal revelation that may bless your life with power, knowledge, light, beauty, and
truth from on high, which will guide you and your posterity to eternal life. What person would not want these
blessings, as expressed by the Prophet Joseph Smith at the dedication of the Kirtland Temple. He said: “We ask
thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may
be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them.” (D&C 109:22.)
David B. Haight, “Come to the House of the Lord” Ensign May 1992
When members of the Church are troubled or when crucial decisions weigh heavily upon their minds, it is a
common thing for them to go to the temple. It is a good place to take our cares. In the temple we can receive
spiritual perspective. There, during the time of the temple service, we are “out of the world.”
Sometimes our minds are so beset with problems, and there are so many things clamoring for attention at once
that we just cannot think clearly and see clearly. At the temple the dust of distraction seems to settle out, the
fog and the haze seem to lift, and we can “see” things that we were not able to see before and find a way
through our troubles that we had not previously known.
The Lord will bless us as we attend to the sacred ordinance work of the temples. Blessings there will not be
limited to our temple service. We will be blessed in all of our affairs.
Temple
No work is more of a protection to this church than temple work and the genealogical research that supports it.
No work is more spiritually refining. No work we do gives us more power. No work requires a higher standard of
righteousness.
Our labors in the temple cover us with a shield and a protection, both individually and as a people.
So come to the temple—come and claim your blessings. It is a sacred work.
Boyd K. Packer, “The Holy Temple” Ensign Feb. 1995
Let us truly be a temple-attending and a temple-loving people. We should hasten to the temple as frequently,
yet prudently, as our personal circumstances allow. We should go not only for our kindred dead but also for the
personal blessing of temple worship, for the sanctity and safety that are within those hallowed and consecrated
walls. As we attend the temple, we learn more richly and deeply the purpose of life and the significance of the
atoning sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let us make the temple, with temple worship and temple covenants
and temple marriage, our ultimate earthly goal and the supreme mortal experience.
Howard W. Hunter, “A Temple-Motivated People” Ensign Feb. 1995
Referring to these covenants in the temple, I would like to say to you again, remember these three words: keep
the covenants. And I think I am safe in saying to you that if you and your families will keep these covenants, you
will be happy, you will be successful, you will be respected, you will have good families that you can take back
into the presence of our Heavenly Father. All you will have to do is remember three words: keep the covenants,
the obligations that you have taken upon yourselves, the pledges that you have made. Keep the covenants.
N. Eldon Tanner, “Conference Report” Oct. 1966
Melchizedek Priesthood holders who are fathers in sealed families have been taught what they must do. There
is nothing that has come or will come into your family as important as the sealing blessings. There is nothing
more important than honoring the marriage and family covenants you have made or will make in the temples of
God.
Henry B. Eyring, “Families under Covenant” Ensign May 2012
We are a covenant people. I have had the feeling that if we could just encourage our people to live by three or
four covenants everything else would take care of itself.
The first of these is the covenant of the sacrament, in which we take upon ourselves the name of the Savior and
agree to keep His commandments with the promise in His covenant that He will bless us with His spirit.
Second, the covenant of tithing. The promise…is that He will stay the destroyer and open the windows of heaven
and pour down blessings that there will not be room enough to receive them.
Three, the covenant of the temple: Sacrifice, the willingness to sacrifice for this the Lord’s work—and inherent in
that law of sacrifice is the very essence of the Atonement…Consecration, which is associated with it, a
willingness to give everything, if need be, to help in the on-rolling of this great work. And a covenant of love and
loyalty one to another in the bonds of marriage, fidelity, chastity, morality. If our people could only learn to live
by these covenants, everything else would take care of itself, I am satisfied.
If our people could only learn to live by these covenants, everything else would take care of itself, I am satisfies.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley” 1997
Temple
We are a covenant people. We covenant to give of our resources in time and money and talent – all we are and
all we possess – to the interest of the kingdom of God upon the earth.
Boyd K. Packer, “The Holy Temple”
I say unto you the Lord is not bound, unless you keep the covenant. The Lord never breaks his covenant. When
He makes a covenant with one of us, He will not break it. If it is going to be broken, we will break it. But when it
is broken, he is under no obligation to give us the blessing, and we shall not receive it.
Joseph Fielding Smith, “Doctrines of Salvation”
If we will keep our covenants, the covenants will keep us spiritually safe.
Neal A. Maxwell, Ensign May 1987
When you come to the temple and receive your endowment, and kneel at the altar and be sealed, you can live
an ordinary life and be an ordinary soul-struggling against temptation, failing and repenting, and failing again
and repenting, but always determined to keep your covenants. Then the day will come when you will receive the
benediction: ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make
thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of Thy Lord’ (Matthew 25:21).”
Boyd K. Packer, “Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled” p. 257
Now let me say something to all who can worthily go to the house of the Lord. When you attend the temple and
perform the ordinances that pertain to the house of the Lord, certain blessings will come to you: You will receive
the spirit of Elijah, which will turn your hearts to your spouse, to your children, and to your forebears. You will
love your family with a deeper love than you have loved before. You will be endowed with power from on high
as the Lord has promised.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson” p. 254
I promise you that all who faithfully attend to temple work will be blessed beyond measure. Your families will
draw closer to the Lord, unseen angels will watch over your loved ones when satanic forces tempt them, the veil
will be thin, and great spiritual experiences will distill upon this people.
Vaughn Featherstone
The season of the world before us will be like no other in the history of man-kind, Satan has unleashed every
evil, every scheme, every blatant, vile perversion ever known to man in any generation. Just as this is the
dispensation of the fullness of times, so it is also the dispensation of the fullness of evil. We and our wives and
husbands, our children, and our members must find safety. There is no safety in the world; wealth cannot
provide it, enforcement agencies cannot assure it, membership in this Church alone cannot bring it.
As the evil night darkens upon this generation, we must come to the temple for light and safety. In our temples
we find quiet, sacred havens where the storm cannot penetrate to us. There are hosts of unseen sentinels
watching over and guarding our temples. Angels attend every door. As it was in the days of Elisha so it will be for
us, “Those that be with us are more than they that be against us.”
Before the Savior comes the world will darken. There will come a period of time where even the elect will lose
hope if they do not come to the temples. The world will be so filled with evil that all righteous will only feel
secure within these walls. The Saints will come here not only to do vicarious work, but to find a haven of peace.
They will long to bring their children here for safety sake.
Vaughn J. Featherstone, “Temple Statement for Utah South” April 1987
Temptation
Temptation
When we face such temptations in our time, we must declare, as young Nephi did in his, “*I will+ give place no
more for the enemy of my soul.” We can reject the evil one. If we want it dearly and deeply enough, that enemy
can and will be rebuked by the redeeming power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Furthermore, I promise you that the
light of His everlasting gospel can and will again shine brightly where you feared life had gone hopelessly,
helplessly dark.
Jeffrey R. Holland, “Place No More for the Enemy of My Soul” Ensign May 2010
Yes, the voices and enticements of the world make good seem evil and evil, good. The false attractions to
engage in immorality, to view that which is forbidden on your home video, to seek unbounded pleasure as if
God did not exist, are, in reality, the yawning pit of hell, set there by the one who will try to bind you with his
awful chains.
William Grant Bangerter, “Coming through the Mists” Ensign May 1984
I am indebted to Elder Dallin Oaks for an account, a modern-day parable which I refer to as the parable of the
bushy-tailed squirrel, the tree, and the dog, which illustrates my concern:
As two men walked across an eastern university campus, they were attracted by a crowd of people surrounding
a large maple tree. As they approached, they noticed that the crowd was being amused by the antics of a foxtailed squirrel circling the tree, climbing it, and running back down again. A red Irish Setter dog crouched nearby,
intently watching the squirrel. Each time the squirrel ran up the tree out of sight, the dog would slowly creep
towards the tree. The squirrel paid little attention as the dog crept closer and closer, patiently biding its time.
People watching this entertaining drama unfold knew what could happen, but they did nothing, until in a flash,
the dog—catching the squirrel unaware—had it in the grip of his sharp teeth.
The people then rushed forward in horror, forcing the dog’s mouth open to rescue the squirrel. It was too late.
The squirrel was dead. Anyone could have warned the squirrel or held back the dog. But they had been
momentarily amused and watched silently while evil slowly crept up on good. When they rushed to the defense,
it was too late.
We see around us daily that which is portrayed in this parable. We sit idly by watching as an insidious stream of
profanity, vulgarity, demeaning behavior, a mocking of righteous ideals and principles, invades our homes and
lives through most types of media, teaching our children negative values and moral corruption. We then become
upset when our children perform differently than we would wish, and social behavior continues to deteriorate.
David B. Haight, “Successful Living of Gospel Principles “Ensign Nov. 1992
The ideal of self-control is supreme. This life is a test—is a test—is a test. You have not passed until you have
endured to the end and are dead. You will be tried every day of your life, whether you know it or not. Today, we
are all bombarded by stimuli toward the loosening of moral controls. The provocation is enormous. You must
practice self-control and have a strong repertoire of such abilities, so that when stress comes, you can cope.
Mercifully, the Lord permits us small doses of evil to practice our controls on before we are hit with real
temptation, but then it comes.
Allen Bergin as quoted by Neal A. Maxwell, The Smallest Part, 1973
We are bombarded with visual images of violence and immorality. Inappropriate music and pornography are
increasingly tolerated. The use of drugs and alcohol is rampant. There is less emphasis on honesty and character.
Temptation - Testimony
Individual rights are demanded, but duties, responsibilities, and obligations are neglected. There has been a
coarsening of dialogue and increased exposure to that which is base and vulgar. The adversary has been
relentless in his efforts to undermine the plan of happiness. If we separate ourselves from this worldly conduct,
we will have the Spirit in our lives and experience the joy of being worthy Latter-day Saints.
Quentin L. Cook, “Are You a Saint?” Ensign Nov. 2003
I say to this people, Do as you are told; and if you live by every righteous principle that you can learn and forsake
every evil principle and act through your whole lives as becometh Saints of the Most High, all will be well. Can
men live so that they can have the serene, blessed, calm, soft, soothing Spirit of the Lord always to abide with
them? Yes, they can. And if they are tempted, they can resist temptation. Can women? They can. If they have
temptation they can resist it, and it will flee from them, and they will gain a victory.
Brigham Young, “Journal of Discourses”
Life isn't the reward. Life it the test.
Testimony
A testimony is what we know to be true in our minds and in our hearts by the witness of the Holy Ghost (see
D&C 8:2). As we profess truth rather than admonish, exhort, or simply share interesting experiences, we invite
the Holy Ghost to confirm the verity of our words. The power of pure testimony (see Alma 4:19) does not come
from sophisticated language or effective presentation; rather, it is the result of revelation conveyed by the third
member of the Godhead, even the Holy Ghost.
David A. Bednar, “More Diligent and Concerned at Home” Ensign Nov. 2009
We have been sent here to work out our individual salvation through the tests and challenges of daily life. We
cannot do that by relying heavily upon the borrowed light of someone else’s testimony. As we receive
inspiration when we hear prophets, leaders, and peers bear their testimonies, those spiritual feelings should
further enhance our desire to strengthen our own convictions.
Donald L. Staheli, “Securing Our Testimonies” Ensign Nov. 2004
If you want to give a light to others, you have to glow yourself.
Thomas S. Monson, “For I Was Blind, but Now I See” Ensign May 1999
You must begin where you are. Pray, even if you are like the prophet Alma when he was young and wayward, or
if you are like Amulek, of the closed mind, who ‘knew concerning these things, yet … would not know.’ Prayer is
your personal key to heaven. The lock is on your side of the veil.
Boyd K. Packer, Ensign, November 1994
You gain a vibrant, life-changing testimony today the same way it has always been done. The process hasn’t
been changed. It comes through desire, study, prayer, obedience, and service. That is why the teachings of
prophets and apostles, past and present, are as relevant to your life today as they ever have been.
M. Russell Ballard, “Learning the Lessons of the Past” Ensign May 2009
We gain a testimony of any commandment of God by keeping that commandment (see John 7:17). This is true of
the command that we pray always vocally and in secret. As your teacher and your friend, I promise that God will
answer your prayers and that by the power of the Holy Ghost, you can know for yourself that the answers are
Testimony
from Him.
Henry B. Eyring, “Exhort Them to Pray” Ensign Feb. 2012
Testimony requires the nurturing by the prayer of faith, the hungering for the word of God in the scriptures, and
the obedience to the truth we have received. There is danger in neglecting prayer. There is danger to our
testimony in only casual study and reading of the scriptures. They are necessary nutrients for our testimony.
Henry B. Eyring, “A Living Testimony”
Some of us are naturally reserved and timid about bearing our testimony with words. Perhaps we should not be
so timid. The Doctrine and Covenants tells us, “But with some I am not well pleased, for they will not open their
mouths, but they hide the talent which I have given unto them, because of the fear of man” (D&C 60:2). When
we do bear testimony, we should testify with a spirit of humility. Section 38 of the Doctrine and Covenants
reminds us, “And let your preaching be the warning voice, every man to his neighbor, in mildness and in
meekness” (D&C 38:41).
Perhaps we do not always remember that it is the power of the Spirit that carries our testimony into the hearts
of others. Our testimony is our own. It cannot be challenged by someone else. It is personal and real to us. But it
is the Holy Spirit that gives a similar witness to another.
James E. Faust, “The Importance of Bearing Testimony” Ensign March 1997
Satan wants us to fail to reach that mountaintop that will allow us to develop a testimony so powerful that he
will be unable to influence us. His work is to thwart our efforts, but the Lord has counseled us, “Fear not, little
flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail”
(D&C 6:34).
Jack H. Goaslind, “Spiritual Mountaintops” Ensign Nov. 1995
Generally, testimony emerges over time and through life’s experiences. We can compare testimony to the
process of watching a photograph develop. Powerful impressions of the Spirit come like flashes of light on
receptive photographic film. Like the chemicals needed to develop the picture, certain spiritual conditions and
experiences are needed in our lives for our personal testimony to develop into a certain truth and knowledge.
And like a photograph, a testimony, if not carefully preserved, will fade with time.
Testimonies often come when there is willingness to serve where we are called. They come when a decision is
made to strive to be obedient. Testimonies come during efforts to help, lift, and strengthen others. They come
from prayer and from studying the scriptures and applying them in our lives. Whatever our circumstances, there
seem to be moments in each of our lives when we can be given the knowledge that God lives and that Jesus is
the Christ. There is no greater search in life that we can embark upon than the quest to gain a testimony of the
truth.
Robert D. Hales, “The Importance of Receiving a Personal Testimony” Ensign Nov. 1994
Oh, if I could teach you this one principle. A testimony is to be found in the bearing of it! Somewhere in your
quest for spiritual knowledge, there is that “leap of faith,” as the philosophers call it. It is the moment when you
have gone to the edge of the light and stepped into the darkness to discover that the way is lighted ahead for
just a footstep or two. “The spirit of man,” is as the scripture says, indeed “is the candle of the Lord.” (Prov.
20:27.)
It is one thing to receive a witness from what you have read or what another has said; and that is a necessary
beginning. It is quite another to have the Spirit confirm to you in your bosom that what you have testified is
Testimony
true. Can you not see that it will be supplied as you share it? As you give that which you have, there is a
replacement, with increase!
Bear testimony of the things that you hope are true, as an act of faith. It is something of an experiment, akin to
the experiment that the prophet Alma proposed to his followers. We begin with faith—not with a perfect
knowledge of things. That sermon in the thirty-second chapter of Alma is one of the greatest messages in holy
writ, for it is addressed to the beginner, to the novice, to the humble seeker. And it holds a key to a witness of
the truth.
The Spirit and testimony of Christ will come to you for the most part when, and remain with you only if, you
share it. In that process is the very essence of the gospel.
Is not this a perfect demonstration of Christianity? You cannot find it, nor keep it, nor enlarge it unless and until
you are willing to share it. It is by giving it away freely that it becomes yours.
Boyd K. Packer, “The Candle of the Lord” Ensign Jan. 1983
Testimony is as elusive as a moonbeam; it’s as fragile as an orchid; you have to recapture it every morning of
your life. You have to hold on by study, and by faith, and by prayer. If you allow yourself to be angry, if you allow
yourself to get into the wrong kind of company, you listen to the wrong kind of stories, you are studying the
wrong kind of subjects, you are engaging in sinful practices, there is nothing that will be more deadening as to
take away the Spirit of the Lord from you until it will be as though you had walked from a lighted room when
you go out of this building, as though you had gone out into a darkness.
Harold B. Lee, Nov. 1972
That which you possess today in testimony will not be yours tomorrow unless you do something about it. Your
testimony is either going to increase or it is going to diminish, depending on you. Will you remember your
responsibility, then? The Lord said, “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of
God, or whether I speak of myself” (John 7:17).
Harold B. Lee, Friend Aug. 1953
As President Harold B. Lee taught: ‘Testimony isn’t something that you have today and you keep always.
Testimony is either going to grow and grow to the brightness of certainty, or it is going to diminish to
nothingness, depending upon what we do about it. I say, the testimony that we recapture day by day is the thing
that saves us from the pitfalls of the adversary.’ We need to stay close to the Lord every day if we are to survive
the adversity that we all must face.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Liahona Jan. 2010
To have a testimony of Jesus is to possess knowledge through the Holy Ghost of the divine mission of Jesus
Christ.
Ezra Taft Benson, April 1982
Ye are blessed, for the testimony which ye have borne is recorded in heaven for the angels to look upon; and
they rejoice over you, and your sins are forgiven you.
D&C 62:3
Tithing
Tithing
I want to repeat to the Latter-day Saints my firm belief that God our heavenly Father prospers and blesses and
gives wisdom to those men and to those women who are strictly honest with him in the payment of their
tithing. I believe that when a man is in financial difficulty, the best way to get out of that difficulty (and I speak
from personal experience, because I believe that more than once in my life I have been in the financial mud as
deep as almost anybody) is to be absolutely honest with the Lord, and never to allow a dollar to come into our
hands without the Lord receiving ten per cent of it.
Heber J. Grant, “Chapter 13: Principles of Financial Security”
We are a covenant people. I have had the feeling that if we could just encourage our people to live by three or
four covenants everything else would take care of itself.
The first of these is the covenant of the sacrament, in which we take upon ourselves the name of the Savior and
agree to keep His commandments with the promise in His covenant that He will bless us with His spirit.
Second, the covenant of tithing. The promise…is that He will stay the destroyer and open the windows of heaven
and pour down blessings that there will not be room enough to receive them.
Three, the covenant of the temple: Sacrifice, the willingness to sacrifice for this the Lord’s work—and inherent in
that law of sacrifice is the very essence of the Atonement…Consecration, which is associated with it, a
willingness to give everything, if need be, to help in the on-rolling of this great work. And a covenant of love and
loyalty one to another in the bonds of marriage, fidelity, chastity, morality. If our people could only learn to live
by these covenants, everything else would take care of itself, I am satisfied.
If our people could only learn to live by these covenants, everything else would take care of itself, I am satisfies.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley” 1997
The Lord, to whom one owes tithing, is in a position of a preferred creditor. If there is not enough to pay all
creditors, he should be paid first. You may be a little shocked by this statement, but it is true. Other creditors,
however, need not worry, for the Lord always blesses the person who has faith enough to pay tithing so his or
her ability to pay other creditors is not thereby reduced.
Marion G. Romney, “Concerning Tithing” Ensign June 1980
My plea this day to all members of the Church is: Pay an honest tithing and be blessed, and don’t quibble over
the amount you should pay. In the words attributed to President Young, “We do not ask anybody to pay tithing
unless they are disposed to do so, but if you pretend to pay tithing, pay it like honest men” (Journal of
Discourses, 8:202).
Marion G. Romney, “The Blessings of an Honest Tithe” Ensign Jan./Feb. 1982
In October of 1998 Hurricane Mitch devastated many parts of Central America. President Gordon B. Hinckley
was very concerned for the victims of this disaster, many of whom lost everything—food, clothing, and
household goods. He visited the Saints in the cities of San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa, Honduras; and Managua,
Nicaragua. And like the words of the loving prophet Elijah to a starving widow, this modern prophet’s message
in each city was similar—to sacrifice and be obedient to the law of tithing.
Tithing - Trials
But how can you ask someone so destitute to sacrifice? President Hinckley knew that the food and clothing
shipments they received would help them survive the crisis, but his concern and love for them went far beyond
that. As important as humanitarian aid is, he knew that the most important assistance comes from God, not
from man. The prophet wanted to help them unlock the windows of heaven as promised by the Lord in the book
of Malachi (see Mal. 3:10; Mosiah 2:24).
President Hinckley taught them that if they would pay their tithing, they would always have food on their tables,
they would always have clothing on their backs, and they would always have a roof over their heads.
Lynn G. Robbins, “Tithing—a Commandment Even for the Destitute” Ensign May 2005
In addition to recognizing that nothing is actually yours, one of the blessings that comes from paying tithing is
how you use the other money that you have. You learn the principles of thrift, and you’re likely to listen to what
the prophets have to say about avoiding unnecessary debt and deciding what is a want versus a need. The law of
tithing is both substantive in the sense that it is real and you can count it, but it’s also symbolic in terms of how
you feel about other things.
Cecil O. Samuelson, “My Grandfather’s Testimony of Tithing” New Era July 2011
Observing the Law of Tithing
In 1838 a revelation given to the Prophet Joseph Smith instructed members of the church to “pay onetenth of all their interest annually; and this shall be a standing law unto them forever.” President Brigham Young
later declared, “The law of tithing is an eternal law that God has instituted for the benefit of the human family
for their salvation and exaltation.”
If we pay our tithing with faith, willingly and joyfully, the Lord promises He will “open the windows of
heaven, and pour out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”
The payment of tithing also brings the individual tithe payer unique spiritual blessings. Tithe paying is
evidence that we accept the law of sacrifice. It also prepares us for the law of consecration and the other higher
laws of the celestial kingdom.
President Gordon B. Hinckley has observed that “there are many ways in which the Lord can bless us
beyond the riches of the world. There is the great boon of health. There is promised in modern revelation to
help individuals make decisions that lead to peace and assurance in their lives.
These and many other blessings, both spiritual and temporal, come as we pay our tithes and willingly
give the best we have, including our time and talents, in building up our Heavenly Father’s kingdom on earth.
Trials
Yet struggles are a part of the sacred sanctification process. There are no soft or slothful ways to become
sanctified to the point that we are prepared to live in the presence of the Savior. And there can be blessings in
the burdens we bear. As a result of these struggles, our souls are stretched and our spirits are strengthened. Our
character becomes more Christ like as we are tried and tested.
L. Lionel Kendrick, “Strength During Struggles” Ensign Oct. 2001
By definition, trials will be trying. There may be anguish, confusion, sleepless nights, and pillows wet with tears.
But our trials need not be spiritually fatal. They need not take us from our covenants or from the household of
God.
Neil L. Andersen, "Trial of Your Faith" Ensign Oct. 2012
Trials
As the teachings of the Savior are consistently obeyed, life will be beautiful, the future secure, and there will be
capacity to overcome the challenges that cross our path.
Richard G. Scott, Ensign Nov. 2001
A pebble held close to the eye appears to be a gigantic obstacle. Cast on the ground, it is seen in perspective.
Likewise, problems or trials in our lives need to be viewed in the perspective of scriptural doctrine. Otherwise
they can easily overtake our vision, absorb our energy, and deprive us of the joy and beauty the Lord intends us
to receive here on earth.
Richard G. Scott, Ensign, May 1996
I testify to you that our promised blessings are beyond measure. Though the storm clouds may gather, though
the rains may pour down upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our
Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments.
There will be nothing in this world that can defeat us.
Thomas S. Monson, “Be of Good Cheer” Ensign May 2009
I know it’s not an easy case to make to you… that a little pain is good for you, but it honestly is. If we are ever
going to receive ‘all that *the+ Father hath’ (D&C 84:38), it’s not going to happen without giving all that we have
in return. Our Heavenly Father desires noble sons and daughters, and as Lehi taught, holiness can only be
brought to pass through adversity and testing. [We] require opposition to fulfill the measure of [our] creation.
Marlin K. Jensen
None of us makes it through this life without problems and challenges—and sometimes tragedies and
misfortunes. After all, in large part we are here to learn and grow from such events in our lives. We know that
there are times when we will suffer, when we will grieve, and when we will be saddened. However, we are told,
“Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.”
How might we have joy in our lives, despite all that we may face? Again from the scriptures: “Wherefore, be of
good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you.”
Thomas S. Monson, “Be of Good Cheer” Ensign May 2009
In the process of living we will face struggles, many of which will cause us to suffer and to experience pain. Many
people will suffer in personal struggles, while others will suffer as they watch their loved ones in pain.
To gain strength in our struggles, we must have a positive perspective of the principles in the plan of salvation.
We must realize that we have a personal Savior whom we can trust and turn to in our times of need. We must
also learn and live the principles that the Lord has given to receive the strength needed during our struggles.
L. Lionel Kendrick, “Strength During Struggles” Ensign Oct. 2001
Learn to accept adversity. No matter who you are or where you serve, you are going to have some. But do not
fear the winds of adversity. Remember, a kite rises against the wind, rather than with it!
Jacob de Jager, “Service and Happiness” Ensign Nov. 1993
We don’t seek out tests, trials, and tribulations. Our personal journey through life will provide just the right
amount for our needs. Many trials are just a natural part of our mortal existence, but they play such an
important role in our progress.
Sometimes we want to have growth without challenges and to develop strength without any struggle. But
growth cannot come by taking the easy way. We clearly understand that an athlete who resists rigorous training
Trials
will never become a world-class athlete. We must be careful that we don’t resent the very things that help us
put on the divine nature.
Paul V. Johnson, “More Than Conquerors through Him That Loved Us” Ensign May 2011
Even though these experiences may cause pain, suffering, and sorrow, we have this absolute assurance: “No
pain suffered by man or woman upon the earth will be without its compensating effects if it be suffered in
resignation and if it be met with patience” (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball *1982+,
168).
L. Lionel Kendrick, “Strength During Struggles” Ensign Oct. 2001
At times it may seem that our trials are focused on areas of our lives and parts of our souls with which we seem
least able to cope. Since personal growth is an intended outcome of these challenges, it should come as no
surprise that the trials can be very personal—almost laser guided to our particular needs or weaknesses. And no
one is exempt, especially not Saints striving to do what’s right. Some obedient Saints may ask, “Why me? I’m
trying to be good! Why is the Lord allowing this to happen?” The furnace of affliction helps purify even the very
best of Saints by burning away the dross in their lives and leaving behind pure gold. Even very rich ore needs
refining to remove impurities. Being good is not enough. We want to become like the Savior, who learned as He
suffered “pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind.”
Paul V. Johnson, “More Than Conquerors through Him That Loved Us” Ensign May 2011
Some might ask when faced with such suffering, how could Almighty God let this happen? And then that
seemingly inevitable question, why did this happen to me? Why must we experience disease and events that
disable or call precious family members home early or extend their years in pain? Why the heartaches?
At these moments we can turn to the great plan of happiness authored by our Heavenly Father. That plan, when
presented in the pre-earth life, prompted us all to shout for joy. Put simply, this life is training for eternal
exaltation, and that process means tests and trials. It has always been so, and no one is spared.
Ronald A. Rasband, “Special Lessons” Ensign May 2012
How do you remain “steadfast and immovable” during a trial of faith? You immerse yourself in the very things
that helped build your core of faith: you exercise faith in Christ, you pray, you ponder the scriptures, you repent,
you keep the commandments, and you serve others.
When faced with a trial of faith—whatever you do, you don’t step away from the Church! Distancing yourself
from the kingdom of God during a trial of faith is like leaving the safety of a secure storm cellar just as the
tornado comes into view.
Neil L. Andersen, “Trial of Your Faith” Ensign Nov. 2012
People respond to struggles in different ways. Some feel defeated and beaten down by the burdens they are
called to bear. Many begin to blame others for their difficulties and defeats, and they fail to follow the counsel
of the Lord. It is a natural tendency to seek the easy road on life’s journey and to become discouraged, filled
with doubt, and even depressed when facing life’s struggles.
Elder Neal A. Maxwell, then an Assistant to the Twelve, distinguished the difference in responses to difficulties:
“The winds of tribulation, which blow out some men’s candles of commitment, only fan the fires of faith of
*others+” (“Why Not Now?” Ensign, Nov. 1974, 12).
L. Lionel Kendrick, “Strength During Struggles” Ensign Oct. 2001
Trials
No, it is not without a recognition of life’s tempests but fully and directly because of them that I testify of God’s
love and the Savior’s power to calm the storm. Always remember in that biblical story that He was out there on
the water also, that He faced the worst of it right along with the newest and youngest and most fearful. Only
one who has fought against those ominous waves is justified in telling us—as well as the sea—to “be still.” Only
one who has taken the full brunt of such adversity could ever be justified in telling us in such times to “be of
good cheer.” Such counsel is not a jaunty pep talk about the power of positive thinking, though positive thinking
is much needed in the world. No, Christ knows better than all others that the trials of life can be very deep and
we are not shallow people if we struggle with them. But even as the Lord avoids sugary rhetoric, He rebukes
faithlessness and He deplores pessimism. He expects us to believe!
Jeffrey R. Holland, “An High Priest of Good Things to Come” Ensign Nov. 1999
We are indebted to Henry Ward Beecher for this marvelous thought that “Affliction comes to us all not to make
us sad, but sober; not to make us sorry, but wise; not to make us despondent, but by its darkness to refresh us
as the night refreshes the day… It is trial that proves one thing weak and another strong. A cobweb is as good as
the mightiest cable when there is no strain upon it.”
James E. Faust, “Married or Single: Look beyond Yourself” Ensign March 1980
When George A. Smith was very ill, he was visited by his cousin, the Prophet Joseph Smith. The afflicted man
reported: “He *the Prophet+ told me I should never get discouraged, whatever difficulties might surround me. If I
were sunk into the lowest pit of Nova Scotia and all the Rocky Mountains piled on top of me, I ought not to be
discouraged, but hang on, exercise faith, and keep up good courage, and I should come out on the top of the
heap.”
There are times when you simply have to righteously hang on and outlast the devil until his depressive spirit
leaves you. As the Lord told the Prophet Joseph Smith: “Thine adversity and thine afflictions, shall be but a small
moment; And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high.” (D&C 121:7–8.)
Ezra Taft Benson, “Do Not Despair” Ensign Nov. 1974
The Lord’s way is not to sit at the side of the stream and wait for the water to pass before we cross. It is to come
together, roll up our sleeves, go to work, and build a bridge or a boat to cross the waters of our challenges.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Providing in the Lord’s Way” Ensign Nov. 2011
Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he’s been
robbed. The fat is that most putts don’t drop, most beef is tough, most children grow up to be just people, most
successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration, most jobs are often more dull than otherwise.
Life is like an old-time rail journey…Delays, side tracks, smoke, dust cinders, and jolts, interspersed only
occasionally by beautiful vistas, and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have
the ride.
Gordon B. Hinckley
Word of Wisdom - Work
Word of Wisdom
The condition of the physical body can affect the spirit. That’s why the Lord gave us the Word of Wisdom. He
also said that we should retire to our beds early and arise early (see D&C 88:124), that we should not run faster
than we have strength (see D&C 10:4), and that we should use moderation in all good things. In general, the
more food we eat in its natural state—without additives—and the less it is refined, the healthier it will be for us.
Food can affect the mind, and deficiencies of certain elements in the body can promote mental depression. A
good physical examination periodically is a safeguard and may spot problems that can be remedied. Rest and
physical exercise are essential, and a walk in the fresh air can refresh the spirit. Wholesome recreation is part of
our religion and is a necessary change of pace; even its anticipation can lift the spirit.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Do Not Despair” Ensign Nov. 1986
Many people, including me, have difficulty finding the time for sufficient rest, exercise, and relaxation. We must
schedule time on our daily calendars for these activities if we are to enjoy a healthy and balanced life. Good
physical appearance enhances our dignity and self-respect.
M. Russell Ballard, “Keeping Life’s Demands in Balance” Ensign May 1987
In general, the more food we eat in its natural state and the less it is refined without additives, the healthier it
will be for us. Food can affect the mind, and deficiencies in certain elements in the body can promote mental
depression. A good physical examination periodically is a safeguard and may spot problems that can be
remedied. Rest and physical exercise are essential, and a walk in the fresh air can refresh the spirit. Wholesome
recreation is part of our religion, and a change of pace is necessary, and even its anticipation can lift the spirit.
Ezra Taft Benson, “Do Not Despair” Ensign Nov. 1986
Work
The Lord’s way is not to sit at the side of the stream and wait for the water to pass before we cross. It is to come
together, roll up our sleeves, go to work, and build a bridge or a boat to cross the waters of our challenges.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Providing in the Lord’s Way” Ensign Nov. 2011
Work is an antidote for anxiety, an ointment for sorrow, and a doorway to possibility. Whatever our
circumstances in life, my dear brethren, let us do the best we can and cultivate a reputation for excellence in all
that we do. Let us set our minds and bodies to the glorious opportunity for work that each new day presents.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Two Principles for Any Economy” Ensign Nov. 2009
Our ability to hear spiritually is linked to our willingness to work at it. President Hinckley has often said that the
only way he knows to get anything done is to get on his knees and plead for help and then get on his feet and go
to work. That combination of faith and hard work is the consummate curriculum for learning the language of the
Spirit. The Savior taught, “Blessed are all they who do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be
filled with the Holy Ghost” (3 Ne. 12:6; emphasis added). Hungering and thirsting translate to sheer spiritual
labor. Worshiping in the temple, repenting to become increasingly pure, forgiving and seeking forgiveness, and
earnest fasting and prayer all increase our receptivity to the Spirit. Spiritual work works and is the key to
learning to hear the voice of the Lord.
Sheri L. Dew, “We Are Not Alone” Ensign Nov. 1998
Work
We are seeking to build up and to establish righteousness in the hearts of the people, and I want to see you, as
members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, male and female, so industrious, so active in the
discharge of your duties as Latter-day Saints, so humble, so submissive to the will of the Lord that you will not
have time to spend in magnifying the weaknesses, the follies and the faults of your neighbors and of your fellow
members of the Church. The Lord knows there is evil enough said in the world thoughtlessly; and without any
particular intent to do wrong, but merely through the weakness of men to talk, talk, talk and say nothing-let us
work and not talk.
Joseph F. Smith, “Conference Report” Oct. 1911
You have the potential to become anything to which you set your mind. You have a mind and a body and a spirit.
With these three working together, you can walk the high road that leads to achievement and happiness. But
this will require effort and sacrifice and faith.
Gordon B. Hinckley, “Stay on the High Road” Ensign May 2004
We are often left to work out problems, without the dictation or specific direction of the Spirit. That is part of
the experience we must have in mortality. Fortunately, we are never out of our Savior’s sight, and if our
judgment leads us to actions beyond the limits of what is permissible and if we are listening to the still small
voice, the Lord will restrain us by the promptings of His Spirit.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Teaching by the Spirit” June 1994
Many times I have prayed to my Father in Heaven that He would help me to do my work. I hope that I may pray
more and more effectively that I may help Him to do his work, and by that means express to Him the
appreciation that I feel for all of the blessings of my life.
Sterling W. Sill, “Conference Report” April 1954
Having food and raiment let us be therewith content. ‘-Why another farm, another herd of sheep, another
bunch of cattle, another ranch? Why another hotel, another café, another store, another shop? Why another
plant, another office, another service, another business? Why another of anything if one has that already which
provides the necessities and reasonable luxuries? Why continue to expand and increase holdings, especially
when those increased responsibilities draw one’s interests away from proper family and spiritual commitments,
and from those things to which the Lord would have us give precedence in our lives? Why must we always be
expanding to the point where our interests are divided and our attentions and thoughts are upon the things of
the world? Certainly when one’s temporal possessions become great, it is very difficult for one to give proper
attention to the spiritual things.
Spencer W. Kimball, “Conference Report” Oct. 1953
Each of us should cling to our inheritance. There is everything in knowing our inheritance and constantly
reaffirming it in our lives. And certainly we should not claim to be children of God and then go about the world
acting as though we are orphans or weaklings or cowards or sinners. By an abundance of our good works, we
can have our own finest year this year and make for our world the very best of times. We can also help to usher
in the age of belief in God, the age of light, the age of reason, and the age of righteousness, as well as to help
bring about a millennium of peace on earth and goodwill toward men.
Sterling W. Sill, “Conference Report” April 1970
Would it be far-fetched if we would speak of ten commandments for the new year, all of which, if you will be
mindful of them, will advance you on your road to perfection?
First:
Second:
Third:
Fourth:
Fifth:
Sixth:
Seventh:
Eighth:
Ninth:
Tenth:
Harold B. Lee
Work
Learn better this new year to talk with God in fervent prayer.
Make effective your right to the Savior’s atonement through baptism and by truly living the law
of repentance.
Keep the Sabbath day holy by giving service to the Lord on the Sabbath day, by attending the
meetings which you are expected to attend and partaking of the sacrament and renewing your
covenants.
Obey the Word of Wisdom this year perfectly…
Pay a full tithing this year.
Fast two meals on the first Sunday of the month and pay the full value of those two meals from
which you have abstained.
Live the law of chastity more perfectly than you have ever done it before, by thinking pure
thoughts…
If unmarried, keep yourself pointed for marriage at the proper time, …seek the proper
companion in the Lord’s way…
If you are married, live this year more true to your marriage vows.
Give obedience to the counsel of those who preside in authority over you.
Among the Latter-day Saints there ought to be no occasion for what is called ‘swearing-off’ or for the general
making of resolutions of improvement on New Year’s day. Every day should witness with them a determination
to lay aside weaknesses and take on more of the graces of godliness. Each day furnishes opportunity to look
closely into one’s habits, to examine and discard the worthless and cleave unto that which is elevation and holy.
George Q. Cannon, “Gospel Truth” p. 164
Ten Rules of Happiness
By President David O. McKay
1. Develop yourself by self-discipline.
2. Joy comes through creation—sorrow through destruction. Every living thing can grow: use the world
wisely to realize soul growth.
3. Do things which are hard to do.
4. Entertain up building thoughts. What you think about when you do not have to think shows what you
really are.
5. Do your best this hour, and you will do better the next.
6. Be true to those who trust you.
7. Pray for wisdom, courage, and a kind heart.
8. Give heed to God’s messages through inspiration. If self-indulgence, jealousy, avarice, or worry have
deadened your response, pray the Lord to wipe out these impediments.
9. True friends enrich life. If you would have friends, be one.
10. Faith is the foundation of all things—including happiness.