D&C 63:13-19 Lust vs love

Elder Holland said: “Lust is an unsavory word, and it is certainly an unsavory topic for me to address, but there is good reason why in some traditions it is known as the most deadly of the seven deadly sins.2

Why is lust such a deadly sin? Well, in addition to the completely Spirit-destroying impact it has upon our souls, I think it is a sin because it defiles the highest and holiest relationship God gives us in mortality—the love that a man and a woman have for each other and the desire that couple has to bring children into a family intended to be forever. Someone said once that true love must include the idea of permanence. True love endures. But lust changes as quickly as it can turn a pornographic page or glance at yet another potential object for gratification walking by, male or female. True love we are absolutely giddy about—as I am about Sister Holland; we shout it from the housetops. But lust is characterized by shame and stealth and is almost pathologically clandestine—the later and darker the hour the better, with a double-bolted door just in case. Love makes us instinctively reach out to God and other people. Lust, on the other hand, is anything but godly and celebrates self-indulgence. Love comes with open hands and open heart; lust comes with only an open appetite.

These are just some of the reasons that prostituting the true meaning of love—either with imagination or another person—is so destructive. It destroys that which is second only to our faith in God—namely, faith in those we love. It shakes the pillars of trust upon which present—or future—love is built, and it takes a long time to rebuild that trust when it is lost.” (General Conference, April, 2010)

D&C 58:1-3 C.S. Lewis and Pres Brigham Young why trials are worth it.

C. S. Lewis: “Imagine yourself as a living house. God comes in to rebuild that house. At first, perhaps, you can understand what He is doing. He is getting the drains right and stopping the leaks in the roof and so on: you knew that those jobs needed doing and so you are not surprised. But presently he starts knocking the house about in a way that hurts abominably and does not seem to make sense. What on earth is He up to? The explanation is that He is building quite a different house from the one you thought of—throwing out a new wing here, putting on an extra floor there, running up towers, making courtyards. You thought you were going to be made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace. …’ (New York: The Macmillan Company, 1952, p. 160.)” (“The Value of Home Life,” Ensign, Feb. 1972, 5).

President Brigham Young taught the following about having an eternal perspective and about the glory that comes to the faithful: “We talk about our trials and troubles here in this life but suppose that you could see yourselves thousands and millions of years after you have proved faithful to your religion during the few short years in this time, and have obtained eternal salvation and a crown of glory in the presence of God? Then look back upon your lives here, and see the losses, crosses, and disappointments … you would be constrained to exclaim, ‘but what of all that? Those things were but for a moment, and we are now here. We have been faithful during a few moments in our mortality, and now we enjoy eternal life and glory’” (“Remarks,” Deseret News, Nov. 9, 1859, 1). (See also Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual, 2nd ed. Church Educational System manual, 2001, 119-20.)

D&C 57:1-3 What might be keeping us from having the temple at the center of our lives?

President Spencer W. Kimball:

“One man who had been a slave to alcohol most of his adult life became convinced . . . that he must give up the habit and prepare himself for the temple. . . . With great effort he quit drinking. He moved many miles away from the area where his drinking friends lived and, though his body craved and ached and gnawed for [alcohol], he finally conquered. He was at all his Church meetings, and was paying his tithing. His new friends in the Church seemed to fortify him. He felt good in the new activity, and life was glorious. His wife was beaming, because now the whole family was always together. This is what she had dreamed about all their married life.

“They got their temple recommends and the happy day arrived and they drove to the temple city for this great event. They arrived early and each had some errands to do. As it happened, the husband ran into some old friends. They urged him to go with them to the tavern [where alcohol was served]. No, he would not, he said, he had other important things to do. Well, he could just take a soft drink [soda], they urged”

“With the best of intentions he finally relented [and went to the tavern with his old friends]. But by the time he was to meet his wife at the temple he was so incapacitated [or drunk with alcohol] that the family went home in disgrace and sorrow and disap­pointment” (The Miracle of Forgiveness, 171).

D&C 45:32 Standing in Holy places means living worthy of the Holy Ghost.

“‘Holy places’ may have more to do with how one lives than where one lives. If we live worthy of the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, then we stand in a holy place. … A holy place is any place where a person enjoys the Spirit of God” (Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual, 2nd ed. [CES manual, 2001], 196).

D&C 43:7 The Lord has ordained Prophets to lead us and keep us safe.

Follow the Prophet by Elder Spencer J. Condie

In January of 1975, on a dark, rainy night in Tasmania, a 7,300-ton barge smashed into two piers of the Tasman Bridge, which connects Hobart, Tasmania, with its eastern suburbs across the bay. Three spans of the bridge collapsed. An Australian family by the name of Ling were driving across the bridge when suddenly the bridge lights went out. Just then a speeding car passed them and disappeared before their very eyes. Murray Ling “slammed on his brakes and skidded to a stop, one yard from the edge of a black void” (Stephen Johnson, “Over the Edge!” Reader’s Digest, Nov. 1977, p. 128).

Murray got his family out of the car and then began warning oncoming traffic of the disaster ahead. As he frantically waved his arms, to his horror, a car “swerved around him and plummeted into the abyss” (ibid.). A second car barely stopped in time, but a third car showed no sign of slowing down and crashed into the Lings’ car at the edge of the bridge.

Suddenly a loaded bus headed toward Murray, ignoring his waving arms. In desperation, risking his very life, he “ran alongside the driver’s window. ‘There’s a span missing,’ he yelled” (ibid., p. 129). The bus swerved just in time and came to a halt against the railing. Dozens of lives had been saved.

I am grateful for these Brethren whom we sustain as prophets, seers, and revelators who forewarn us of bridges not to be crossed. These great men whom we sustain as prophets, seers, and revelators preach “not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power” (1 Cor. 2:4). Their motives are pure as they strive to build the kingdom of God and to uplift and edify the Saints of God. In the words of the Apostle Paul, they have become “prisoners of Christ” (see Eph. 3:1; Eph. 4:1; Philem. 1:1, 9; 2 Tim. 1:8), whose only desire is to do the Lord’s will. Nothing more. Nothing less. And nothing else. These are men of God! May we heed their warning voices, I humbly pray..." (Ensign, Nov. 1993, 15).

D&C 42:30 Law of Consecration

Quote by Marion G. Romney of the First Presidency. ““The basic principle and the justification for the law of consecration ‘is that everything we have belongs to the Lord therefore, the Lord may call upon us for any and all of the property which we have, because it belongs to Him. … (“Living the Principles of the Law of Consecration,” Ensign, Feb. 1979, 3).

Quote by President Joseph Fielding Smith. “the United Order, or law of consecration, does not contemplate that the idler shall eat the bread of the laborer. While all shall share in common and none shall possess above another, yet all must give service and labor for the benefit of all” (Church History and Modern Revelation, 2 vols. 1953, 1:205).

D&C 38:16 Commandments are like loving tender advice from Heavenly Father.

“When I was a child I recognized, or thought I did, that the commandments of the Lord were His laws and regulations for my guidance. I thought I recognized in the disobedience to those laws that punishment would follow. … But as I grew older I have learned the lesson from another viewpoint, and now to me the laws of the Lord … are but the sweet music of the voice of our Father in heaven in His mercy to us. They are but the advice and counsel of a loving parent, who is more concerned in our welfare than earthly parents can be, and consequently that which at one time seemed to bear the harsh name of law to me is now the loving and tender advice of an all-wise Heavenly Father. And so I say it is not hard for me to believe that it is best for me to keep the commandments of God” (President George Albert Smith. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: George Albert Smith [2011], 193–94).

D&C 35:13. We are entitled to the Lord's help if he called us.

Quote:  President Monson

“Now, some of you may be shy by nature or consider yourselves inadequate to respond affirmatively to a calling. Remember that this work is not yours and mine alone. It is the Lord’s work, and when we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the Lord’s help. Remember that whom the Lord calls, the Lord qualifies.” (Duty Calls, President Monson April General Conference 1996)

D&C 35:3 God has known you for a long, long time. Elder Maxwell

Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:

“I testify to you that God has known you individually … for a long, long time (see D&C 93:23). He has loved you for a long, long time. … He knows your names and all your heartaches and your joys!” (“Remember How Merciful the Lord Hath Been,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2004, 46).

D&C 35:13 Don't judge your leaders in the church. They aren't perfect.

Elder Holland

“…be kind regarding human frailty—your own as well as that of those who serve with you in a Church led by volunteer, mortal men and women. Except in the case of His only perfect Begotten Son, imperfect people are all God has ever had to work with. That must be terribly frustrating to Him, but He deals with it. So should we. And when you see imperfection, remember that the limitation is not in the divinity of the work. As one gifted writer has suggested, when the infinite fulness is poured forth, it is not the oil’s fault if there is some loss because finite vessels can’t quite contain it all. Those finite vessels include you and me, so be patient and kind and forgiving. (CR April 2013)

D&C 31:1-2. The Lord fulfills his promises to the faithful. Story if President Monson promising a young missionary that his father will join the church.

President Thomas S. Monson

“There sat in my office one day a newly arrived missionary. He was bright, strong, filled with enthusiasm and a desire to serve, happy and grateful to be a missionary. As I spoke with him I said, ‘Elder, I imagine that your father and mother wholeheartedly support you in your mission call.’ He lowered his head and replied, ‘Well, not quite. You see, President, my father is not a member of the Church. He doesn’t believe as we believe, so he cannot fully appreciate the importance of my assignment.’ Without hesitating and prompted by a source not my own, I said to him, ‘Elder, if you will honestly and diligently serve God in proclaiming his message, your father will join the Church before your mission is concluded.’ He clasped my hand in a viselike grip, the tears welled up in his eyes and began to roll forth down his cheeks, and he declared, ‘To see my father accept the truth would be the greatest blessing that could come into my life.’

“This young man did not sit idly by, hoping and wishing that the promise would be fulfilled, but rather he followed the example of Abraham Lincoln, of whom it has been said, ‘When he prayed, he prayed as though everything depended upon God, and then he worked as though everything depended upon him.’ Such was the missionary service of this young man.

“At every missionary conference I would seek him out before the meetings would ever commence and ask, ‘Elder, how’s dad progressing?’

“His reply would invariably be, ‘No progress, President, but I know the Lord will fulfil the promise given to me through you as my mission president.’ The days turned to weeks and the weeks to months and finally, just two weeks before we ourselves left the mission field to return home, I received a letter from the father of this missionary. I would like to share it with you today.

“‘Dear Brother Monson:

“‘I wish to thank you so much for taking such good care of my son who recently completed a mission in Canada.

“‘He has been an inspiration to us.

“‘My son was promised when he left on his mission that I would become a member of the Church before his return. This promise was, I believe, made to him by you, unknown to me.

“‘I am happy to report that I was baptized into the Church one week before he completed his mission. …

“‘… His younger brother was also recently baptized and confirmed a member of the Church.

“‘May I again thank you for all the kindness and love bestowed upon my son by his brothers in the mission field during the past two years.

“‘Yours very truly,

“‘A grateful father.’

“The humble prayer of faith had once again been answered” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1964, 131–32).

D&C 29:7 Godly Sorrow by Bishop Vaughn J Featherstone

GODLY SORROW By Bishop Vaughn J. Featherstone

Shortly after I had been called to the Presiding Bishopric, an Arizona stake president told me he had a young missionary candidate who needed to be interviewed for worthiness.

As I invited the young man into my office, I said to him: "Apparently there has been a major transgression in your life.  Would you mind being very frank and open and telling me what that transgression was?"

With head held high and in a haughty manner he responded, "There isn't anything I haven't done."

I responded: "Well then, let's be more specific.  Have you been involved in fornication?"

Very sarcastically, he said, "I told you I've done everything."

I said, "I would to God your transgression was not so serious."

"Well, it is," he replied.

"How about drugs?"

"I told you I've done everything."

Then I said, "What makes you think you're going on a mission?"

"Because I have repented," he replied. "I haven't done any of these things for a year.  I know I'm going on a mission because my patriarchal blessing says I'm going on a mission.  I've been ordained an elder, I've lived the way I should this past year, and I know that I'm going on a mission."

I looked at the young man sitting across the desk: twenty-one years old, laughing, sarcastic, haughty, with an attitude far removed from sincere repentance.  And I said to him: "My dear young friend, I'm sorry to tell you this, but you are not going on a mission.  Do you suppose we could send you out with your braggadocio attitude about this past life of yours, boasting of your escapades?  Do you think we could send you out with the fine, clean young men who have never violated the moral code, who have kept their lives clean and pure and worthy so that they might go on missions?"

"What you have committed is a series of monumental transgressions," I continued.  "You haven't repented; you've just stopped doing something.  Someday, after you have been to Gethsemane and back, you'll understand what true repentance is."

At this the young man started to cry.  He cried for about five minutes, and during that time I didn't say a word. . . I just sat and waited as this young man cried.

Finally, he looked up and said, "I guess I haven't cried like that since I was five years old."

I told him: "If you had cried like that the first time you were tempted to violate the moral code, you may well have been going on a mission today.  Now, I'm sorry.  I hate to be the one to keep you from realizing your goal.  I know it will be hard to go back to your friends and tell them you are not going on a mission."

"After you've been to Gethsemane," I continued, "you'll understand what I mean when I say that every person who commits a major transgression must go to Gethsemane and back before he is forgiven."

The young man left the office, and I'm sure he wasn't very pleased; I had stood in his way and kept him from going on a mission.

About six months later, I was down in Arizona speaking at the institute at Tempe.  After my talk many of the institute members came down the aisles to shake hands.  As I looked up I saw this young man--the nonrepentant transgressor--coming down the aisle toward me.

I reached down to shake hands with him, and as he looked up to me I could see that something wonderful had taken place in his life.  Tears streamed down his cheeks.  An almost holy glow came from his countenance.  I said to him, "You've been there, haven't you?"

And through tears he said, "Yes, Bishop Featherstone, I've been to Gethsemane and back."

"I know," I said. "It shows in your face.  I believe now that the Lord has forgiven you."

He responded: "I'm more grateful to you than you'll ever know for not letting me go on a mission.  It would have been a great disservice to me.  Thanks for helping me" (A Generation of Excellence [Salt Lake City: Book craft, 1975], pp. 156-159).

D&C 27:15 How to put on the whole armor of God

“I like to think of this spiritual armor not as a solid piece of metal molded to fit the body but more like chain mail. Chain mail consists of dozens of tiny pieces of steel fastened together to allow the user greater flexibility without losing protection. I say that because it has been my experience that there is not one great and grand thing we can do to arm ourselves spiritually. True spiritual power lies in numerous smaller acts woven together in a fabric of spiritual fortification that protects and shields from all evil” (M. Russell Ballard, “Be Strong in the Lord,” ‍ Ensign,‍ July 2004, 8).

D&C 27:16 "Having your loins girt about with truth"

The procreative powers that Heavenly Father has blessed us with are one of the most sacred ways we can use our bodies. They open the door to the spirit world and allow Father's children to come to the earth and obtain bodies so they can continue to progress. It is the very key to their progression. Satan is damned and cannot progress anymore because he has no body. The proper use of those powers is the very thing that that will make us gods ourselves. In D&C 132:19 in the very last lines it says, ". . . which glory shall be a fullness and a  continuation of seeds forever and ever." This is referring to posterity.  Verse 20 begins, "Then shall they be gods, because they have no end..." This is not referring to living forever because everyone who comes to earth will be resurrected and live forever. This again is referring to posterity. It goes on to say, ". . .therefore shall they be from everlasting to everlasting, because they continue. . ." Again, a reference to having posterity. In verse 22 it says, "For strait is the gate, and narrow the way that leadeth unto the exaltation and continuation of the lives . . . " (Note that it is the continuation of lives, plural).  The only people who will have the opportunity to use the power to procreate after this life are those who go to the highest degree of the Celestial Kingdom and are gods. All others will lose that ability. You can see why Satan, the father of lies (by the way, that and the father of contention are the only ways he can be a father), works so hard to get us to misuse those powers. He knows that if he does, and we don't repent, that we will lose our exaltation. That is why he spreads so many lies saying that there is nothing wrong with pornography, homosexuality, adultery, fornication,etc. all those things strike at the very core of our existence and the reason for our being on earth. Heavenly Father safeguards mostly closely how we come into this world and how we go out. Sexual sins and murder have the most severe penalties of all other sins. The thing that will protect us is the truth about how to use those powers.

The  Proclamation on the Family is very clear-

"In The Premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshiped 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 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 declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. . ."

Understanding those truths is like putting on the armor of God. It is "girding your loins with truth."

(Comments on "girding about your loins with truth" Nov 2013 By Don Edwards retired S&I)

D&C 20:69 Stand out and be different from the world.

President Nelson:

My fifth invitation is for you to stand out; be different from the world. You and I know that you are to be a light to the world. Therefore, the Lord needs you to look like, sound like, act like, and dress like a true disciple of Jesus Christ. Yes, you are living in the world, but you have very different standards from the world to help you avoid the stain of the world.

With the Holy Ghost as your companion, you can see right through the celebrity culture that has smitten our society. You can be smarter than previous generations have ever been. And if you are sometimes called “weird,” wear that distinction as a badge of honor and be happy that your light is shining brightly in this ever-darkening world!  (President Russell M. Nelson, Hope of Israel, June 3, 2018)

D&C 20:60 Women are equal and yet different from men.

“We are not accustomed to speaking of women having the authority of the priesthood in their Church callings, but what other authority can it be? When a woman—young or old—is set apart to preach the gospel as a full-time missionary, she is given priesthood authority to perform a priesthood function. The same is true when a woman is set apart to function as an officer or teacher in a Church organization under the direction of one who holds the keys of the priesthood. Whoever functions in an office or calling received from one who holds priesthood keys exercises priesthood authority in performing her or his assigned duties.”  – Dallin H. Oaks (“The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood,” April 2014)

“Our Church doctrine places women equal to and yet different from men. God does not regard either gender as better or more important than the other. …When men and women go to the temple, they are both endowed with the same power, which is priesthood power. … Access to the power and the blessings of the priesthood is available to all of God’s children.” – M. Russell Ballard

D&C 121:34-39 The Value of Personal Worthiness

Elder Holland. The Value of Personal Worthiness.

Many years ago now, long before I was called as a General Authority, I participated as a speaker in a young adult conference. The conference concluded with a testimony meeting in which a handsome, young returned missionary stood up to bear his testimony. He looked good, clean, and confident—just like a returned missionary should look.

As he began to speak, tears came to his eyes. He said he was grateful to stand in the midst of such a terrific group of young Latter-day Saints and to feel good about the life he was trying to lead. But that feeling had only been possible, he said, because of an experience he had had a few years earlier, an experience that had shaped his life forever.

He then told of coming home from a date shortly after he had been ordained an elder at age 18. Something had happened on this date of which he was not proud. He did not go into any details, nor should he have done so in a public setting. To this day I do not know the nature of the incident, but it was significant enough to him to have affected his spirit and his self-esteem.

As he sat in his car for a while in the driveway of his own home, thinking things through and feeling genuine sorrow for whatever had happened, his nonmember mother came running frantically from the house straight to his car. In an instant she conveyed that this boy’s younger brother—I do not know what the age of the younger boy was—had just fallen in the home, had hit his head sharply and was having some kind of seizure or convulsion. The nonmember father had immediately called 911, but it would take some time at best for help to come.

“Come and do something,” she cried. “Isn’t there something you do in your Church at times like this? You have their priesthood. Come and do something.”

His mother didn’t know a lot about the Church at that point, but she knew something of priesthood blessings. Nevertheless, on this night when someone he loved dearly needed his faith and his strength, this young man could not respond. Given the feelings he had just been wrestling with, and the compromise he felt he had just made—whatever that was—he could not bring himself to go before the Lord and ask for the blessing that was needed.

He bolted from the car and ran down the street several hundred yards to the home of a worthy older man who had befriended him in the ward ever since the boy’s conversion two or three years earlier. An explanation was given, the older brother responded, and the two were back at the house still well before the paramedics arrived. The happy ending of this story as told in that testimony meeting was that this older man instantly gave a sweet, powerful priesthood blessing, leaving the injured child stable and resting by the time medical help arrived. A quick trip to the hospital and a thorough exam there revealed no permanent damage had been done. A very fearful moment for this family had passed.

Then the returned missionary of whom I speak said this: “No one who has not faced what I faced that night will ever know the shame I felt and the sorrow I bore for not feeling worthy to use my priesthood. It is an even more painful memory for me because it was my own little brother who needed me, and my beloved nonmember parents who were so fearful and who had a right to expect more of me. But as I stand before you today I can promise you this,” he said. “I am not perfect, but from that night onward I have never done anything that would keep me from going before the Lord with confidence and asking for His help when it is needed. Personal worthiness is a battle in this world in which we live,” he acknowledged, “but it is a battle I am winning. I have felt the finger of condemnation pointing at me once in my life, and I don’t intend to feel it ever again if I can do anything about it. And, of course,” he concluded, “I can do everything about it.” (Elder Holland, “Let Virtue Garnish Thy Thoughts Unceasingly” From a youth fireside given on December 31, 2006.)

D&C 19:15 Suffer as Christ did or overcome as Christ did.

Elder Maxwell.  “We will end up either choosing Christ’s manner of living or His manner of suffering! It is either ‘suffer even as I’, or overcome even as He overcame.” (Overcome Even As I Also Overcame. Ensign May 1987, 72)

D&C 18:10 God want's you to know that you matter to Him

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf:

“God sees you not only as a mortal being on a small planet who lives for a brief season—He sees you as His child. He sees you as the being you are capable and designed to become. He wants you to know that you matter to Him” (“You Matter to Him,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 22).

D&C 17:3-5 I am not any longer to be entirely alone in the world

“When they returned to the house it was between three and four o’clock p. m. Mrs. Whitmer, Mr. Smith and myself, were sitting in a bedroom at the time. On coming in, Joseph threw himself down beside me, and exclaimed, ‘Father, mother, you do not know how happy I am: The Lord has now caused the plates to be shown to three more besides myself. They have seen an angel, who has testified to them, and they will have to bear witness to the truth of what I have said, for now they know for themselves, that I do not go about to deceive the people, and I feel as if I was relieved of a burden which was almost too heavy for me to bear, and it rejoices my soul, that I am not any longer to be entirely alone in the world.’ Upon this, Martin Harris came in: he seemed almost overcome with joy and testified boldly to what he had both seen and heard. And so, did David and Oliver, adding that no tongue could express the joy of their hearts, and the greatness of the things which they had both seen and heard” (History of Joseph Smith by His Mother, 152).

D&C 17:1 "They tease me so much" to be the 3 witnesses.

In June 1829 the translation of the Book of Mormon neared completion. Joseph gathered one morning with his family and friends for singing and prayer. Martin Harris was there, having come from Palmyra to see how the translation progressed. While Joseph Smith was translating the Book of Mormon, he learned that three witnesses would be permitted to see the plates (see 2 Nephi 27:12-14 Ether 5:2-4 D&C 5:11-15, 18). David Witmer, Oliver Cowdery, and Martin Harris volunteered, hoping they could be chosen. “They tease me so much”, Joseph said, “almost without intermission for some time”, that he finally asked the Lord for approval and received the exciting answer recorded in D&C 17. Joseph rose from his knees and said to Martin, “…you got to humble yourself before God this day and obtain, if possible, a forgiveness of your sins. If you would do this, it is God’s will that you and Oliver Cowdery and David Witmer should look upon the plates.”

D&C 11:8 You have an important work to do.

“…the Lord sees in you… the potential of a valiant servant with an important work to do and with a testimony to share. There is service that no one else can give in quite the same way.” (Oct. 2016, Pres. Uchtdorf)

“Our Heavenly Father has reserved many of His most noble spirits—perhaps, I might say, His finest team—for this final phase. Those noble spirits—those finest players, those heroes—are you!” (President Nelson, 2018 Youth Devotional)

D&C 9:7-11 Oliver was not ready to translate. "Wait while I get ready."

President Howard W. Hunter:

Oliver was not as ready as he might have been—or as he once had been. His belief in himself and in this great latter-day work had faltered just a bit, and he cried out, “Wait while I get ready.” But he learned that eternal work can seldom wait for long. The Lord eventually replied to him, “Because … you did not continue as you commenced, … I have taken away this privilege. … You feared, and the time is past, and it is not expedient now” (D&C 9:5, 11) (New Era, May 2002).

D&C 2:1-3 The whole earth would be wasted if we don't turn our hearts to our fathers

President Nelson

"Eternal life, made possible by the Atonement, is the supreme purpose of the Creation. To phrase that statement in its negative form, if families were not sealed in holy temples, the whole earth would be utterly wasted." Joseph's role as Prophet of the Restoration was to begin a work that you and I have been sent to do—that is to "invite all of God's children on both sides of the veil to come unto their Savior, receive the blessings of the holy temple, have enduring joy, and qualify for eternal life."

Two missionaries visit Mr. Pollard. First Vision testimony

the following experience is about two missionaries in Canada, as reported by President Thomas S. Monson

“Two [missionaries] called at the home of Mr. Elmer Pollard. … They presented their message and asked if he would join in prayer. He agreed, on the provision that he could offer the prayer.

“The prayer he offered astonished the missionaries. He said, ‘Heavenly Father, bless these two unfortunate, misguided missionaries, that they may return to their homes and not waste their time telling the people of Canada about a message which is so fantastic and about which they know so little.’

“As they arose from their knees, Mr. Pollard asked the missionaries never to return to his home. As they left, he said mockingly to them, ‘You can’t tell me you really believe that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, anyway!’ and he slammed the door” (“The Prophet Joseph Smith: Teacher by Example,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2005, 69).

The two returned to Mr. Pollard’s door. Mr. Pollard answered the knock and angrily said, ‘I thought I told you young men never to return!’

“The junior companion then said, with all the courage he could muster, ‘Mr. Pollard, when we left your door, you said that we didn’t really believe Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I want to testify to you, Mr. Pollard, that I know Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, that by inspiration he translated the sacred record known as the Book of Mormon, that he did see God the Father and Jesus the Son.’ The missionaries then departed the doorstep.

“[Mr. Pollard later testified:] ‘That evening, sleep would not come. I tossed and turned. Over and over in my mind I heard the words, “Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I know it. … I know it. … I know it.” I could scarcely wait for morning to come. I telephoned the missionaries. … They returned, and this time my wife, my family, and I joined in the discussion as earnest seekers of truth. As a result, we have all embraced the gospel of Jesus Christ’” (“The Prophet Joseph Smith: Teacher by Example,” 69).

Plan of Happiness talk from President Packer

https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2015/04/the-plan-of-happiness?lang=eng

Scripture study gives us the faith we need to overcome the adversary. Pres Monson.

President Monson-

I reiterate what we have been told repeatedly—that in order to gain and to keep the faith we need, it is essential that we read and study and ponder the scriptures. Communication with our Heavenly Father through prayer is vital. We cannot afford to neglect these things, for the adversary and his hosts are relentlessly seeking for a chink in our armor, a lapse in our faithfulness. Said the Lord, “Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good.” (“Be an Example and a Light”. By President Monson. Oct 2015)

Moroni 4:3 Let us qualify ourselves for the blessings of the Sacrament

Elder Dallin H. Oaks                                                                                                 

“I plead with all members of the Church, young and old, to attend sacrament meeting each Sabbath day and to partake of the sacrament with the repentant attitude described as ‘a broken heart and a contrite spirit’ (3 Nephi 9:20). I pray that we will do so with the reverence and worship of our Savior that will signify a serious covenant to ‘always remember him’ (D&C 20:77). The Savior himself has said that we should partake ‘with an eye single to my glory—remembering unto the Father my body which was laid down for you, and my blood which was shed for the remission of your sins’ (D&C 27:2).

“I pray that we will also partake of the sacrament with the submissive manner that will help us accept and serve in Church callings in order to comply with our solemn covenant to take His name and His work upon us. I also plead for us to comply with our solemn covenant to keep His commandments. . ..

“. . . Let us qualify ourselves for our Savior’s promise that by partaking of the sacrament we will ‘be filled’ (3 Nephi 20:8 see also 3 Nephi 18:9), which means that we will be ‘filled with the Spirit’ (3 Nephi 20:9)”. (Ensign, Nov. 1996, 61).

Ether 12:6 The Lord expects us to exercise faith in order to gain a testimony of something.

Sister Oscarson: “Sometimes we try to do it backward. For example, we may take this approach: I will be happy to live the law of tithing, but first I need to know that it’s true. Maybe we even pray to gain a testimony of the law of tithing and hope the Lord will bless us with that testimony before we have ever filled out a tithing slip. It just doesn’t work that way. The Lord expects us to exercise faith. We have to consistently pay a full and honest tithe in order to gain a testimony of tithing. This same pattern applies to all the principles of the gospel, whether it is the law of chastity, the principle of modesty, the Word of Wisdom, or the law of the fast” (Bonnie L. Oscarson, “Be Ye Converted,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 77).

My Personal Tryout By Tyler Clark

My Personal Tryout By Tyler Clark

I thought I was trying out for basketball, but I made a much more important team.

It was the first day at my new school. My mother and I were in the office filling out papers when we heard an announcement over the speakers that basketball tryouts would be held that day after school. Since I had played on the team at my old school, I thought I’d go to the tryouts and see what happened. I knew things would be a little different moving from a school where almost everyone was a member of the Church to a school where I might be the only one. But that day I learned things would be really different.

Before school my father had given me a priesthood blessing, which helped me feel a little less worried. Then when we had family prayer, my four-year-old brother prayed that I wouldn’t be scared and that I would be happy at my new school. His prayer really had an effect on me, especially because I’m more of a quiet personality and don’t like drawing attention to myself. At this new school, where my religious beliefs were so unique, I knew I would get a lot of unwanted attention. I was scared and worried, and I already felt like I didn’t fit in.

Basketball tryouts started with drills and shooting baskets and ended with a lot of running. I had tried my best and felt that I had a pretty good chance of making the team. Then it happened.

The coach called everyone over to give some final instructions. As we stood there tired and breathing heavily, the coach asked a question in a loud voice. “Are there any Mormon boys here who can’t practice on Sundays?”

Time seemed to freeze. Did I hear him right? Instantly my mind flashed back to the recent night when I was struggling with living in this new place. I had decided to read For the Strength of Youth and underline what I thought was important in each section. I knew this would help me keep the Lord’s standards and help me feel closer to God. I knew the Lord would be there to help me in my time of need. I could see in my mind the section under “Sabbath Day Observance” where it says, “The Lord has given the Sabbath day for your benefit and has commanded you to keep it holy. … Sunday is not a holiday or a day for recreation or athletic events” (32–33).

Without hesitation I raised my hand. The coach looked at me. All the other boys looked at me. When I looked around I saw that I was the only “Mormon boy” there. What I’d been afraid of was happening. But I didn’t feel embarrassed or scared. I actually felt happy inside.

Talking to my dad on the way home, I remembered my little brother’s prayer; it had been answered. I was happy here. I was happy that I had passed the test and that I’d had the courage to stand up for the truth.

That day had been a tryout. I thought it was only for the basketball team, but it was also a tryout to see if I would stand on the Lord’s side. I was so glad that I had raised my hand to show I wanted to be on His side. When the basketball roster was posted, I was surprised to see my name on it. I made the basketball team and got some good playing time during the season—even though I didn’t go to the practices on Sunday. The coach and the other boys were friendly to me, and the student body would cheer my name when I was on the court. After the season ended, I found out from the missionaries that my coach was taking the missionary lessons. I am grateful for the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet. It really did give me strength that day when I had to stand for the truth alone (New Era, Oct 2008, 6–7).

Ether 6:12 Happiness comes from choosing the Lord

It is not God who has given us the spirit of fear; this comes from the adversary. So many of us are fearful of what our peers will say, that we will be looked upon with disdain and criticized if we stand for what is right. But I remind you that “wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10). Evil never was happiness. Sin never was happiness. Happiness lies in the power and the love and the sweet simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Gordon B. Hinckley) 

Ether 3:8-12 The faith of the brother of Jared

“Christ was saying to the brother of Jared, ‘Never have I showed myself unto man in this manner, without my volition, driven solely by the faith of the beholder.’ ..prophets are invited into the presence of The Lord…only with his sanction. The brother of Jared, on the other hand, seems to have thrust himself through the veil, not as an unwelcome guest but perhaps technically as an uninvited one.. (Elder Holland. ‘Christ and the New Covenant, 23)

Mormon 8:1-4 Can we stand for our beliefs even when we stand alone?

President Monson - “As we go about living from day to day, it is almost inevitable that our faith will be challenged. We may at times find ourselves surrounded by others and yet standing in the minority or even standing alone concerning what is acceptable and what is not. Do we have the moral courage to stand firm for our beliefs, even if by so doing we must stand alone? … May we ever be courageous and prepared to stand for what we believe, and if we must stand alone in the process, may we do so courageously, strengthened by the knowledge that in reality we are never alone when we stand with our Father in Heaven” (“Dare to Stand Alone,” Ensign Nov. 2011, 60, 67).

Go check on Wendi

“GO CHECK ON WENDI!” Darlene Joy Nichols

               When our oldest daughter, Wendi, was five, she attended morning kindergarten class. One day I sent her to school, then readied our two younger children to go shopping.  I felt rushed because it usually took over two hours to do my grocery shopping, and I wanted to be done in time to pick up Wendi from school.  So, with my shopping list in one hand and my two preschoolers in the other, I set off for the store.

               About 20 minutes later I had a clear thought interrupt me: Darlene, go check on Wendi.  I thought to myself, How silly!  Wendi is fine at school.  I dismissed the thought and went about my shopping.  A short time later the thought came back again.  Darlene, go check on Wendi.  The thought came so clearly that I stopped in the middle of a grocery store aisle. 

               Looking at my shopping list and at my two young children, who would not be patient much longer, I reasoned to myself, this is silly! I’m sure Wendi is fine.  I continued down the aisle and turned the corner when the words came forcefully yet again: Darlene, go check on Wendi!

               I told a clerk I’d be back for my groceries and rushed from the store.  As we left, I noticed a severe thunderstorm had come up.  Wendi was terrified of thunderstorms.  Still, I knew she was safe at school.  Nevertheless, I began to worry that something terrible might have happened.  I hurried to the school only to find everything calm.  Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and even the storm was passing.  I was confused and thought perhaps I wouldn’t go inside after all.  But after making the effort to get there, I decided I should at least walk to the classroom and reassure myself that all was well.

               I turned the corner to Wendi’s classroom and saw the door was open and Wendi standing in the doorway.  How odd!  Why wasn’t she at her desk?  As I approached her she seemed just fine and had a smile on her face.  I didn’t know what to say, so I just bent down and gave her a hug.

               “Mommy, I knew you’d come!” she said.

               With that her teacher came over to us and said, “How did you know to come?” Then she explained that the thunder and lightning storm had upset the class.  As she tried to gather the children to sit together on a carpet, she noticed Wendi at her seat praying. When Wendi finished, she told her teacher that she was all right, that she had asked Heavenly Father to send her mommy to her, and could she please wait by the door.

               I could not stop my tears as I realized the prayer of faith of a five-year-old had literally moved me from grocery store five miles away to be at her side.  I am deeply grateful to Heavenly Father for this experience, for we both learned divine lessons about faith and trust that day (Ensign, 2001).

How important was it for Wendi to have a mom close to the spirit?

Mormon 2:10-15 Godly sorrow vs worldly sorrow

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First Presidency explained the difference between worldly sorrow and godly sorrow:

“There is an important difference between the sorrow for sin that leads to repentance and the sorrow that leads to despair.

“The Apostle Paul taught that ‘godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation … but the sorrow of the world worketh death’ [2 Corinthians 7:10]. Godly sorrow inspires change and hope through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Worldly sorrow pulls us down, extinguishes hope, and persuades us to give in to further temptation.

“Godly sorrow leads to conversion and a change of heart [see Ezekiel 36:26; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Mosiah 3:19]. It causes us to hate sin and love goodness [see Mosiah 5:2]. It encourages us to stand up and walk in the light of Christ’s love. True repentance is about transformation, not torture or torment. Yes, heartfelt regret and true remorse for disobedience are often painful and very important steps in the sacred process of repentance. But when guilt leads to self-loathing or prevents us from rising up again, it is impeding rather than promoting our repentance” (“You Can Do It Now!” Ensign Nov. 2013, 56).

Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles pointed out: “Pride prefers cheap repentance, paid for with shallow sorrow. Unsurprisingly, seekers after cheap repentance also search for superficial forgiveness instead of real reconciliation. Thus, real repentance goes far beyond simply saying, ‘I’m sorry’” (“Repentance,” Ensign, Nov. 1991, 31).

4 Nephi 1:2-3 Being converted and having a testimony are not the same thing

“Your happiness now and forever is conditioned on your degree of conversion and the transformation that it brings to your life. How then can you become truly converted? President [Marion G.] Romney describes the steps you must follow:

“‘Membership in the Church and conversion are not necessarily synonymous. Being converted and having a testimony are not necessarily the same thing either. A testimony comes when the Holy Ghost gives the earnest seeker a witness of the truth. A moving testimony vitalizes faith. That is, it induces repentance and obedience to the commandments. Conversion is the fruit or the reward for repentance and obedience.’ [In Conference Report, Guatemala Area Conference 1977, 8–9.]

“Stated simply, true conversion is the fruit of faith, repentance, and consistent obedience. …

“True conversion yields the fruit of enduring happiness that can be enjoyed even when the world is in turmoil and most are anything but happy” (Elder Richard G. Scott “Full Conversion Brings Happiness,” Ensign, May 2002, 25, 26).

Story by President Spencer W. Kimball. A young man who stopped reading his scriptures after his mission.

Story told by President Spencer W. Kimball - "At a distant stake conference one Sunday I was approached after the meeting by a young man whose face was familiar. He identified himself as a returned missionary whom I had met out in the world a few years ago. He said he had not attended the conference but came at its conclusion wanting to see me again. Our greetings were pleasant and revived some choice memories. I asked him about himself. He was in college, still single, and fairly miserable. I asked him about his service in the Church and the light in his eyes went out and a dull, disappointed face fashioned itself as he said, 'I am not very active in the Church now. I don't feel the same as I used to feel in the mission field. What I used to think was a testimony has become something of disillusionment. If there is a God I am not sure anymore. I must have been mistaken in my zeal and joy.'

"I looked him through and through and asked him some questions.

"The answers came as expected. He had turned loose his hold on the iron rod. He associated largely with unbelievers. He read, in addition to his college texts, works by atheists, apostates, and Bible critics. He had ceased to pray to his Heavenly Father. His communication poles were burned; his lines sagging.

"I asked him now, "How many times since your mission have you read the New Testament?"

"Not any time," was the answer.

"How many times have you read the Book of Mormon through?"

               The answer, "None."

               "How many chapters of scripture have you read? How many verses?"

               Not one single time had he opened the sacred books. He had been reading negative and critical and faith‑destroying things and wondered why he could never smile (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, pp. 128-129).

3 Nephi 23:1-5 Scripture study helps us draw closer to the Savior and gives us power to resist temptation

“There are certain blessings obtained when one searches the scriptures. As a person studies the words of the Lord and obeys them, he or she draws closer to the Savior and obtains a greater desire to live a righteous life. The power to resist temptation increases, and spiritual weaknesses are overcome. Spiritual wounds are healed” (“Coming unto Christ by Searching the Scriptures,” Elder Batman Ensign, Nov. 1992, 28).

3 Nephi 19:28 The Savior wants to forgive

3 Nephi 19:28

“Our Heavenly Father knows what we are facing, that we all sin and “come short of the glory of God” again and again. He sent His Son, who “knoweth the weakness of man and how to succor them who are tempted.” His Son teaches us to “pray always that we enter not into temptation.” We are told to “cry unto God for mercy; for he is mighty to save.” The Savior commands us to repent and to forgive. And although repentance is not easy, as we strive with all our hearts to obey His gospel, He gives this promise: “Verily I say unto you, notwithstanding your sins, my bowels are filled with compassion towards you. I will not utterly cast you off; and in the day of wrath I will remember mercy.” The Savior wants to forgive.” (“The Savior Wants to Forgive” By Elder Craig A. Cardon Of the Seventy. General Conference April 2013)

3 Nephi 18:6-12. Can you help us give back the Sacrament meeting to the Savior?

Brothers and Sisters. I have studied the scriptures and prayerfully pondered about the spiritual experience we hope members will have through sabbath day observance in church. I was deeply touched by how the Savior instituted the Sacrament amongst the Nephites. You will recall that this occurred immediately following the incredible spiritual ministry that is recorded in chapter 17 in 3^rd Nephi in what may be the most tender account in all scripture. He commanded that their little children should be brought, and that the multitude should kneel down upon the ground. Then He knelt upon the ground, groaned within Him, and said “Father, I am troubled because of the wickedness of the people of the House of Israel.” This sounds like the world we live in today. Then He once again, taught the sacred ordinance of the sacrament. This time among the Nephites. Brothers and Sisters, can you help us give back the Sacrament Meeting to the Savior? On this sacred day, good Friday, our prayer and our hope is that the same feelings that emanate from these scriptures, can be captured across the church in Sacrament Meetings where we rejoice and worship God the Father and Jesus Christ our Savior and Redeemer. As one of His Apostles, I bear solemn witness of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the significance and sacredness of the Sacrament. I testify of the reality of the Atonement, and the Saviors divinity. I know He lives. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. (Quentin L Cook. Leadership training “Sabbath day Observance” April 2015)

3 Nephi 17:3 Pondering invites revelation

“Reading, studying, and pondering are not the same. We read words and we may get ideas. We study and we may discover patterns and connections in scripture. But when we ponder, we invite revelation by the Spirit. Pondering, to me, is the thinking and the praying I do after reading and studying in the scriptures carefully” (Pres Eyring. “Serve with the Spirit,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 60).

3 Nephi 11:31-40 If you do your best to stay on the straight and narrow path, you will be saved in the Celestial Kingdom.

Everyone in the Church who is on the straight and narrow path, who is striving and struggling and desiring to do what is right, though is far from perfect in this life; if he passes out of this life while he's on the straight and narrow, he's going to go on to eternal reward in his Father's kingdom.  We don't need to get a complex or get a feeling that you have to be perfect to be saved. You don't. There's only been one perfect person, and that's the Lord Jesus, but in order to be saved in the Kingdom of God and in order to pass the test of mortality, what you have to do is get on the straight and narrow path—thus charting a course leading to eternal life—and then, being on that path, pass out of this life in full fellowship. I'm not saying that you don't have to keep the commandments. I'm saying you don't have to be perfect to be saved. If you did, no one would be saved. The way it operates is this: You get on that path that's named the "straight and narrow." You do it by entering at the gate of repentance and baptism. The straight and narrow path leads from the gate of repentance and baptism, a very great distance, to a reward that is called eternal life.

If you're on that path and pressing forward, and you die, you'll never get off the path. There is no such thing as falling off the straight and narrow path in the life to come, and the reason is that this life is the time that is given to men to prepare for eternity. Now is the time and the day of your salvation, so if you're working zealously in this life—though you haven't fully overcome the world and you haven't done all you hoped you might do—you're still going to be saved.… You don't have to live a life that's truer than true.… What you have to do is stay in the mainstream of the Church and live as upright and decent people live in the Church—keeping the commandments, paying your tithing, serving in the organizations of the Church, loving the Lord, staying on the straight and narrow path.  If you’re on that path when death comes—because this is the time and the day appointed, this the probationary estate—you'll never fall from it, and for all practical purposes, your calling and election is made sure.  (“The Probationary Test of Mortality,” address delivered at Institute of Religion, SLC, Utah, 10 Jan. 1982)

3 Nephi 9:20 Broken Heart and Contrite Spirit

After His Atonement and Resurrection, the Savior said He would no longer accept burnt offerings of animals. The gift or sacrifice He will accept now is “a broken heart and a contrite spirit.” As you seek the blessing of conversion, you can offer the Lord the gift of your broken, or repentant, heart and your contrite, or obedient, spirit. In reality, it is the gift of yourself—what you are and what you are becoming.

Is there something in you or in your life that is impure or unworthy? When you get rid of it, that is a gift to the Savior. Is there a good habit or quality that is lacking in your life? When you adopt it and make it part of your character, you are giving a gift to the Lord. Sometimes this is hard to do, but would your gifts of repentance and obedience be worthy gifts if they cost you nothing? Don’t be afraid of the effort required. And remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Jesus Christ will help you make of yourself a worthy gift. His grace will make you clean, even holy. Eventually, you will become like Him, “perfect in Christ.” (Elder Christofferson, “When Thou Art Converted” April 2004)

Helaman 14:20-29 Prophecy and fulfillment of Jesus Christ by Samuel the Lamanite

Prophecy of the Savior’s Death		Fulfillment
Helaman 14:20, 27	Sun darkened for three days	3 Nephi 8:19–23
Helaman 14:21	Thunder, lightning, earthquakes	3 Nephi 8:6–7, 12
Helaman 14:22	Earth broken up	3 Nephi 8:17–18
Helaman 14:23	Great tempests; mountains laid low and valleys become mountains	3 Nephi 8:5–6, 12, 17–18
Helaman 14:24	Highways and cities destroyed	3 Nephi 8:8–11, 13–14
Helaman 14:25	Graves open and resurrected Saints minister to people	3 Nephi 23:9–13

Helaman 9:36 Prophets represent Jesus Christ

Allie looked around Grandfather Snow’s office in the Salt Lake Temple. “It’s late! We’re the only ones here.”

“Sorry, my dear,” her grandpa said with a smile. “I’ve been telling you too many stories.”

“Please don’t apologize. I’ve always loved your stories.” Allie hugged her grandfather, Lorenzo Snow, the fifth President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“I’ll walk you to the front entrance and let you out,” he said. “The night watchmen haven’t arrived yet, and the doors are all locked.” They walked out of his office into the hall.

Allie had married Noah Pond in a nearby room in the temple just three years ago. Now Noah was away in Sweden serving a mission. Allie missed him. But she knew he was serving the Lord, just as she and her family had done in Hawaii.

“Wait a moment, Allie,” Grandpa said. “I want to tell you something. Do you remember when President Wilford Woodruff died?”

Allie remembered well. It had only been a year ago, and Grandpa Snow had been worried about the responsibility of being the next President of the Church. He had prayed that President Woodruff would not die. When President Woodruff passed away, Grandpa had come to the Salt Lake Temple as soon as he heard the news.

“It was right here that the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to me. He told me to go right ahead and reorganize the First Presidency at once and not wait as had been done after the death of the previous presidents, and that I was to succeed President Woodruff,” Grandpa said.

Grandpa held out his hand. “He stood right here, about three feet above the floor. It looked as though He stood on a plate of solid gold.”

Allie stood very still as she felt the Spirit confirm the truth of these words. The Savior had appeared in this very spot in the temple and told her grandpa about his calling as President of the Church! Grandpa continued to describe the Savior’s hands, feet, face, and beautiful white robes. He said they were so white and bright that he could hardly look at the Savior.

Then Grandpa put his hand on her head. “Now, Granddaughter, I want you to remember that this is the testimony of your grandfather, that he told you with his own lips that he actually saw the Savior, here in the temple, and talked with Him face to face.”

Allie hugged Grandpa at the door and quietly made her way home. Her heart felt warm, and she knew that Jesus Christ really had appeared to Grandpa. The Savior lived, and He was the head of His Church. This was truly a night to remember. (The Prophets Granddaughter, Part 3 A visit from the Savior. Friend, Dec 2014)

Helaman 1:18-21 Contention leaves us vulnerable to Satan's attacks.

President Russell M. Nelson.
Prior to His ascension from the Holy Land, the Savior pronounced a unique blessing: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.” (John 14:27.)

His peace is not necessarily political; His peace is personal. But that spirit of inner peace is driven away by contention. Contention does not usually begin as strife between countries. More often, it starts with an individual, for we can contend within ourselves over simple matters of right and wrong. From there, contention can infect neighbors and nations like a spreading sore.

As we dread any disease that undermines the health of the body, so should we deplore contention, which is a corroding canker of the spirit. I appreciate the counsel of Abraham Lincoln, who said:

“Quarrel not at all. No man resolved to make the most of himself can spare time for personal contention. … Better give your path to a dog than be bitten by him.” (Letter to J. M. Cutts, 26 Oct. 1863, in Concise Lincoln Dictionary of Thoughts and Statements, comp. and arr. Ralph B. Winn, New York: New York Philosophical Library, 1959, p. 107.)….

….What can we do to combat this canker of contention? What steps may each of us take to supplant the spirit of contention with a spirit of personal peace?

To begin, show compassionate concern for others. Control the tongue, the pen, and the word processor. Whenever tempted to dispute, remember this proverb: “He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.” (Prov. 11:12)

Bridle the passion to speak or write contentiously for personal gain or glory. The Apostle Paul thus counseled the Philippians, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” (Philip. 2:3.)

Such high mutual regard would then let us respectfully disagree without being disagreeable.

But the ultimate step lies beyond beginning control of expression. Personal peace is reached when one, in humble submissiveness, truly loves God. Heed carefully this scripture:

“There was no contention in the land, because of the love of God which did dwell in the hearts of the people.” (4 Ne. 1:15) (“The Canker of Contention, Elder Nelson, April 1989)

Alma 46:19-22 We need to defend our religious freedom.

Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. What we can do to defend our freedom?

 “First, we can become informed. Be aware of issues in your community that could have an impact on religious liberty.

“Second, in your individual capacity, join with others who share our commitment to religious freedom. Work side by side to protect religious freedom.

“Third, live your life to be a good example of what you believe—in word and deed. How we live our religion is far more important than what we may say about our religion” (Robert D. Hales, “Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 113).

Alma 43:16-22 We are growing up in enemy territory and must be prepared.

President Packer

“Youth today are being raised in enemy territory with a declining standard of morality. But as a servant of the Lord, I promise that you will be protected and shielded from the attacks of the adversary if you will heed the prompting that come from the Holy Spirit”

“Dress modestly; talk reverently; listen to uplifting music. Avoid all immorality and personally degrading practices. Take hold of your life and order yourself to be valiant… You are never far from the sight of your loving Heavenly Father” (Council to Youth, Ensign Nov 2011, p18).

Alma 37:35-37. Lean in your youth to keep the commandments

President Gordon B. Hinckley planted a young tree near his home soon after he was married. He paid little attention to it as the years passed. One day he noticed the tree was misshapen and leaning to the west because winds from the east had bent it while it was young and supple. He went out and tried to push it upright, but the trunk was too thick. He tried using a rope and pulleys to straighten it, but it would not bend. Finally, he took his saw and cut off the heavy branch on the west side, which left an ugly scar. He later said of the tree:

“More than half a century has passed since I planted that tree. My daughter and her family live there now. The other day I looked again at the tree. It is large. Its shape is better. It is a great asset to the home. But how serious was the trauma of its youth and how brutal the treatment I used to straighten it.

“When it was first planted, a piece of string would have held it in place against the forces of the wind. I could have and should have supplied that string with ever so little effort. But I did not, and it bent to the forces that came against it” (“Bring up a Child in the Way He Should Go,” Ensign, Nov. 1993, 59).

Alma 36 Chiasmus

Alma 36:19 Remembering our past sins helps us avoid making the same mistake.

President Uchtdorf

“Satan will try to make us believe that our sins are not forgiven because we can remember them. Satan is a liar; he tries to blur our vision and lead us away from the path of repentance and forgiveness. God did not promise that we would not remember our sins. Remembering will help us avoid making the same mistakes again. But if we stay true and faithful, the memory of our sins will be softened over time. This will be part of the needed healing and sanctification process. Alma testified that after he cried out to Jesus for mercy, he could still remember his sins, but the memory of his sins no longer distressed and tortured him, because he knew he had been forgiven (see Alma 36:17–19).

“It is our responsibility to avoid anything that would bring back old sinful memories. When we continue to have a ‘broken heart and a contrite spirit’ (3 Nephi 12:19), we may trust that God will ‘remember [our sins] no more’ [D&C 58:42]” (“Point of Safe Return,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 101).

Alma 36:11-12 What does it mean to be racked, harrowed, and tormented?

Alma 36:11-12 To better understand the words racked, harrowed, and torment, read the following statement by President Boyd K. Packer (1924–2015) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:

President Boyd K. Packer

“Racked means ‘tortured.’ Anciently a rack was a framework on which the victim was laid with each ankle and wrist tied to a spindle which could then be turned to cause unbearable pain.

“A harrow is a frame with spikes through it. When pulled across the ground, it rips and tears into the soil. The scriptures frequently speak of souls and minds being ‘harrowed up’ with guilt.

“Torment means ‘to twist,’ a means of torture so painful that even the innocent would confess” (Boyd K. Packer, “The Touch of the Master’s Hand,” Ensign, May 2001, 23).

Alma 31:8-11 Worshiping the Lord by doing the small things will keep me on the path.

“During the past years I have at times been asked by the Brethren to meet with repentant members of the Church and interview them for the restoration of their temple blessings. This has always been a spiritually moving experience to restore the blessings of those wonderful people who have repented. I have asked some of them the question, ‘What happened in your life that caused you to temporarily lose your membership in the Church?’ With tear-filled eyes they answered: ‘I didn’t obey the basic principles of the gospel: prayer, attending church regularly, serving in church and studying the gospel. I then gave in to temptations and lost the guidance of the Holy Spirit’” (Rulon G. Craven, “Temptation,” Ensign, May 1996, 76).

Alma 30:52. “I always knew that there was a God”

Elder Robert D. Hales - If we do not yield to the gentle influence of the Holy Ghost, we stand in jeopardy of becoming like Korihor, an anti-Christ in the Book of Mormon. Not only did Korihor disbelieve in God, but he also ridiculed the Savior, the Atonement, and the spirit of prophecy, falsely teaching that there is no God and no Christ.

               Korihor was not content merely to reject God and quietly go his own way. He mocked the believers and demanded that the prophet Alma convince him with a sign of God’s existence and power. Alma’s response is as meaningful today as it was then: ‘Thou hast had signs enough; will ye tempt your God? Will ye say, Show unto me a sign, when ye have the testimony of all these thy brethren, and also all the holy prophets? The scriptures are laid before thee, yea, and all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator.’ [Alma 30:44.]

               Eventually Korihor was given a sign. He was struck dumb. ‘And Korihor put forth his hand and wrote, saying: … I know that nothing save it were the power of God could bring this upon me; yea, and I always knew that there was a God.’ [Alma 30:52.]

               Brothers and sisters, you may already know, deep in your soul, that God lives. You may not know all about Him yet and do not understand all His ways, but the light of belief is within you, waiting to be awakened and intensified by the Spirit of God and the Light of Christ, which you are born with. (“Seeking to Know God, Our Heavenly Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 31–32).

Alma 30:18 Anti-family is Anti-Christ

Sister Julie B. Beck. Seminaries and Institutes of Religion Satellite Broadcast; August 4, 2009

I’m finding verse 18 interesting: “Thus he did preach unto them, leading away the hearts of many, causing them to lift up their heads in their wickedness, yea, leading away many women, and also men, to commit whoredoms.” A lot of the antifamily messages that you are hearing are targeting young women. Satan knows that he will never have a body; he will never have a family. He will target those young women who create the bodies for the future generations and who should teach the families.

They don’t even know what they’re being taught in the messages. It’s just seeping in, almost through their pores. Because Satan can’t have it, he’s luring away many women, and also men, and they’re losing confidence in their ability to form eternal families.

Korihor was an anti-Christ. Anti-Christ is antifamily. Any doctrine or principle our youth hear from the world that is antifamily is also anti-Christ. It’s that clear. They need to know that if it’s antifamily, it’s anti-Christ. An anti- Christ is antifamily.

Linda S. Reeves, "Worthy of Our Promised Blessings", October 2015 Conference

Mormon also testified that in Alma’s day, Korihor, the anti-Christ, “did preach … , leading away the hearts of … many women.”

 Sisters, Satan has raised a Korihor-like banner in our day with increasing success. What are some of his tools? Seductive romance novels, TV soap operas, married women and old boyfriends connecting on social media, and pornography. We must be so careful, dear sisters! We cannot play with Satan’s fiery darts and not get burned. I know of nothing that will qualify us for the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost as much as virtue...

When we are involved in watching, reading, or experiencing anything that is below our Heavenly Father’s standards, it weakens us. Regardless of our age, if what we look at, read, listen to, or choose to do does not meet the Lord’s standards in For the Strength of Youth, turn it off, rip it up, throw it out, and slam the door.

Alma 22:15-18. The Lord requires the sacrifice of all earthly things in order to obtain Eternal Life.

“Let us here observe, that a religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation; for, from the first existence of man, the faith necessary unto the enjoyment of life and salvation never could be obtained without the sacrifice of all earthly things. It was through this sacrifice, and this only, that God has ordained that men should enjoy eternal life;.... When a man has offered in sacrifice all that he has for the truth’s sake, not even withholding his life, and believing before God that he has been called to make this sacrifice because he seeks to do his will, he does know, most assuredly, that God does and will accept his sacrifice and offering, and that he has not, nor will not seek his face in vain. Under these circumstances, then, he can obtain the faith necessary for him to lay hold on eternal life” (Lectures on Faith by the Prophet Joseph Smith Jr).