President Ezra Taft Benson
“We must be careful, as we seek to become more and more
godlike, that we do not become discouraged and lose hope. Becoming Christlike
is a lifetime pursuit and very often involves growth and change that is slow,
almost imperceptible. The scriptures record remarkable accounts of men whose
lives changed dramatically, in an instant, as it were: Alma the Younger, Paul
on the road to Damascus, Enos praying far into the night, King Lamoni. Such
astonishing examples of the power to change even those steeped in sin give
confidence that the Atonement can reach even those deepest in despair.
“But we must be cautious as we discuss these remarkable
examples. Though they are real and powerful, they are the exception more than
the rule. For every Paul, for every Enos, and for every King Lamoni, there are
hundreds and thousands of people who find the process of repentance much more
subtle, much more imperceptible. Day by day they move closer to the Lord,
little realizing they are building a godlike life. They live quiet lives of
goodness, service, and commitment” (Ezra Taft Benson, “A Mighty Change of
Heart,” Ensign, Oct. 1989, 5).
