Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
explained the need to separate ourselves from unrighteousness and the blessing
that comes from doing so:
“The word saint in Greek denotes ‘set apart, separate, [and]
holy’ [in Daniel H. Ludlow, ed., Encyclopedia of Mormonism, 5 vols. (1992),
3:1249]. If we are to be Saints in our day, we need to separate ourselves from
evil conduct and destructive pursuits that are prevalent in the world.
“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” (“Are You a Saint?” Ensign or Liahona,
Nov. 2003, 95).
