Sabbath Day Observance for Professionals and Students

Over a lifetime of observation, it is clear to me that the farmer who observes the Sabbath day seems to get more done on his farm than he would if he worked seven days. The mechanic will be able to turn out more and better products in six days than in seven. The doctor, the lawyer, the dentist, the scientist will accomplish more by trying to rest on the Sabbath than if he tries to utilize every day of the week for his professional work. I would counsel all students, if they can, to arrange their schedules so that they do not study on the Sabbath. If students and other seekers after truth will do this, their minds will be quickened and the infinite Spirit will lead them to the verities they wish to learn. This is because God has hallowed his day and blessed it as a perpetual covenant of faithfulness. (See Ex. 31:16.)


Author: James E. Faust
Title: The Lord’s Day
Where: Ensign, Nov 1991, 33

Keep the Spirit of the Lord and It Will Lead Them Right

In February of 1847 the Prophet Joseph Smith appeared to Brigham Young in a dream or vision. President Young asked the Prophet if he had a message for the Brethren. The Prophet Joseph replied: “Tell the people to be humble and faithful, and be sure to keep the spirit of the Lord and it will lead them right. Be careful and not turn away the small still voice; it will teach them what to do and where to go; it will yield the fruits of the kingdom” (see Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young [1997], 41; emphasis added). Of all the truths the Prophet Joseph might have taught Brigham Young on that sacred occasion, he emphasized the importance of obtaining and keeping the Spirit of the Lord.

Author: David A. Bednar
Title: That We May Always Have His Spirit to Be with Us
Where: Ensign, May 2006, 28–31

Don't Take Counsel From Your Fears

I would like to say one thing to the young men: don’t take too much counsel from your fears. Now think about that.

Author: James E. Faust
Title: The Value of Self-Esteem
Where: CES Fireside for Young Adults • May 6, 2007 • Salt Lake Tabernacle

Another example of President Hunter's courage and determination to complete a task given him by the First Presidency is demonstrated by the completion of the Jerusalem Center. President Hunter purchased the land, supervised the architecture and construction of the center, and negotiated with government and religious leaders the teaching objectives for the center. During the years it took to complete the Jerusalem Center, President Hunter demonstrated a steadfastness and courage against opposition. He told those who worked with him, "Go ahead, move forward. Don't take counsel from your fears." How often we don't even try, and we fail simply because of our fear of failure.

Author: Robert D. Hales
Title: A Testimony of Prophets
Where: Brigham Young University on 5 June 1994.

Aided Perhaps by a Touch of Spiritual Teflon

Meanwhile, let us expect that many will regard us indifferently. Others will see us as quaint or misled. Let us bear the pointing fingers which, ironically, belong to those finally who, being bored, find the “great and spacious building” to be a stale and cramped third-class hotel (see 1 Ne. 8:31–33). Let us revile not the revilers and heed them not (see D&C 31:9). Instead, let us use our energy to hold up the shield of faith to quench the incoming fiery darts—aided perhaps by a touch of spiritual Teflon (see 1 Ne. 15:24).

Author: Neal A. Maxwell
Title: How Choice a Seer!
Where: Ensign, Nov 2003, 99

The Only Possible Way Lay Through the Very Middle of Impossible

When I have felt myself at an end with nothing before me, suddenly with the appearance of that word ‘impossible’ I have experienced again the unexpected lift, the leap inside me, and known that the only possible way lay through the very middle of the impossible.


Author: Richard Thurman
Title: The Countess and the Impossible
Where: Reader’s Digest, June 1958, pp. 107–10

Long After the Emotion Under Which You Made the Commitment Has Died

We have to be committed. But to be committed 100 percent, we need the help of the Lord. You need to have the discipline and commitment to do the things you’ve promised, long after the emotion under which you made the commitment has died.”

Author: M. Russell Ballard
Title: The Power of Commitment
Where: New Era, Nov 1989, 4

He Is A Liar and A Loser

The devil...He is a liar and a loser

Author: Neil L. Andersen
Title: Beware of the Evil behind the Smiling Eyes
Where: Ensign, May 2005, 46

Faithfully Perservere in Church Callings...Guided to Other Opportunities, Even Beyond My Dreams

One of the important things I learned was that if I faithfully persevered in my Church callings, the Lord would open up the way and guide me to other opportunities and blessings, even beyond my dreams.

Author: James E. Faust
Title: Perseverance
Where: Ensign, May 2005, 51
Why I liked it: I've seen this already in my short life.

His Love Is Such That Even Should We Give Up On Ourselves, He Never Will

His love is such that even should we give up on ourselves, He never will.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: The Way of the Disciple
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 75–78

Now Is The Time

Now is the time to adjust your lives to be able to have a temple recommend and use it. Now is the time to have meaningful family home evenings, to read the word of God, and to speak to our Heavenly Father in earnest prayer. Now is the time to fill our hearts with gratitude for the Restoration of His Church, for living prophets, the Book of Mormon, and the priesthood power that blesses our lives. Now is the time to embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, become His disciples, and walk in His way.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: The Way of the Disciple
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 75–78

Every Holder of the Priesthood Should Participate In Daily Scripture Study

Every holder of the priesthood should participate in daily scripture study. Crash courses are not nearly so effective as the day-to-day reading and application of the scriptures in our lives....

I promise you, whether you hold the Aaronic or the Melchizedek Priesthood, that if you will study the scriptures diligently, your power to avoid temptation and to receive direction of the Holy Ghost in all you do will be increased.

Author: Thomas S. Monson
Title: Be Your Best Self
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 67–70

Although our journey through mortality will at times place us in harm’s way, may I offer you tonight three suggestions which, when observed and followed, will lead us to safety. They are:

1. Study diligently.

2. Pray fervently.

3. Live righteously.

These suggestions are not new; they have been taught and repeated again and again. If we incorporate them into our lives, however, we will have the strength to withstand the adversary. Should we ignore them, we will be opening the door for Satan to have influence and power over us.

Author: Thomas S. Monson
Title: Be Your Best Self
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 67–70

You Are Under Covenant...He Sends You to Act for Him

Our comrades are being wounded in the spiritual conflict around us. So are the people we are called to serve and protect from harm....you are under covenant, as has been made clear to you, that when you accepted the trust from God to receive the priesthood, you accepted a responsibility for whatever you might do or fail to do for the salvation of others however difficult and dangerous that might appear to be for you....He sends you to act for Him.

Author: Henry B. Eyring
Title: Man Down!
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 63–66

The Doctrine of the Church Is Not Someone's Best Guess As To The Meaning of Ancient Scripture

The doctrine of the Church is not someone’s best guess as to the meaning of ancient scripture. It is the truth of heaven revealed by God Himself.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 59–62

A Mind to Work...A True and Faithful Priesthood Man

Nehemiah

Nehemiah of the Old Testament is a great example of staying focused and committed to an important task. Nehemiah was an Israelite who lived in exile in Babylon and served as cupbearer to the king. One day the king asked Nehemiah why he seemed so sad. Nehemiah replied, “Why should not my countenance be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ [graves], lieth waste, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire?”4

When the king heard this, his heart was softened, and he gave Nehemiah the authority to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the city. However, not everyone was happy with this plan. In fact, several rulers who lived near Jerusalem grieved exceedingly “that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel.”5 These men “took great indignation, and mocked the Jews.”6

Fearless, Nehemiah did not allow the opposition to distract him. Instead, he organized his resources and manpower and moved forward rebuilding the city, “for the people had a mind to work.”7

But as the walls of the city began to rise, opposition intensified. Nehemiah’s enemies threatened, conspired, and ridiculed. Their threats were very real, and they grew so intimidating that Nehemiah confessed, “They all made us afraid.”8 In spite of the danger and the ever-present threat of invasion, the work progressed. It was a time of stress, for every builder “had his sword girded by his side, and so builded.”9

As the work continued, Nehemiah’s enemies became more desperate. Four times they entreated him to leave the safety of the city and meet with them under the pretense of resolving the conflict, but Nehemiah knew that their intent was to do him harm. Each time they approached him, he responded with the same answer: “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down.”10

What a remarkable response! With that clear and unchanging purpose of heart and mind, with that great resolve, the walls of Jerusalem rose until they were rebuilt in an astonishing 52 days.11

Nehemiah refused to allow distractions to prevent him from doing what the Lord wanted him to do.

We Will Not Come Down

I am encouraged and inspired by the many faithful priesthood holders today who are of similar heart and mind. Like Nehemiah, you love the Lord and seek to magnify the priesthood you bear. The Lord loves you and is mindful of the purity of your hearts and the steadfastness of your resolve. He blesses you for your fidelity, guides your path, and uses your gifts and talents in building His kingdom on this earth.

Nevertheless, not all are like Nehemiah. There is room for improvement.

I wonder, my dear brethren of the priesthood, what could be accomplished if we all, like the people of Nehemiah, “had a mind to work.” I wonder what could be accomplished if we “put away childish things”12 and gave ourselves, heart and soul, to becoming worthy priesthood bearers and true representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Think for a moment what could be accomplished in our personal lives, in our professional lives, in our families, in our wards and branches. Think of how the kingdom of God would progress throughout the earth. Imagine how the world itself could be transformed for good if every man who bears the priesthood of God were to gird up his loins and live up to his true potential, converted in the depth of his soul, a true and faithful priesthood man, committed to building the kingdom of God.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 59–62

What Excuses Do You Cling To?

What excuses do you cling to that keep you from being the kind of husband, father, son, and priesthood holder you know you should be? What are the things that distract you from your duties or hinder you from magnifying your calling more diligently?....When we truly love our Heavenly Father and His children, we demonstrate that love through our actions.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 59–62

There Is Enough of Expertise, of Knowledge, of Strength, of Concern In Every Priesthood Quorum To Assist

Brethren, there is no organization better able to respond to the challenges of humanity than the priesthood of the Most High God. We have the organization....Bishops and priesthood leaders, rise up and let the brotherhood of the priesthood engage themselves in the wonderful opportunity to truly be a quorum, a brotherhood, a brother’s keeper.

President Gordon B. Hinckley, while a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said:

“I am satisfied, my brethren, that there is enough of expertise, of knowledge, of strength, of concern in every priesthood quorum to assist the troubled members of that quorum if these resources are properly administered.

“… It is the obligation of the priesthood quorum to set in motion those forces and facilities which will equip the needy member to provide on a continuing basis for himself and his family.”3

Author: Richard C. Edgley
Title: This Is Your Phone Call
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 53–55

It May Seem That The World Is In Commotion; And It Is!

It may seem that the world is in commotion; and it is! It may seem that there are wars and rumors of wars; and there are! It may seem that the future will hold trials and difficulties for you; and it will! However, fear is the opposite of faith. Do not be afraid! I do not fear.

At noon today four young men, all grandsons, came to visit us. Three of them had young ladies on their arms—one to talk about his coming wedding, two of them to announce their engagements, and the stray to talk about his mission call to Japan. We talked to them about the fact that one day each of you will take a pure and precious daughter of our Heavenly Father to the temple to be sealed for time and for all eternity. These young grandsons must know what Alma taught: that the gospel plan is “the great plan of happiness”22 and that happiness is the end of our existence

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Counsel to Young Men
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 49–52

It Will Not Hurt You to Want Something and Not Have It

The reality of life is now part of your priesthood responsibilities. It will not hurt you to want something and not have it. There is a maturing and disciplining that will be good for you. It will ensure that you can have a happy life and raise a happy family. These trials come with responsibility in the priesthood

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Counsel to Young Men
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 49–52

Young Men Should Not Complain About Schooling

You young men should not complain about schooling. Do not immerse yourself so much in the technical that you fail to learn things that are practical. Everything you can learn that is practical—in the house, in the kitchen cooking, in the yard—will be of benefit to you. Never complain about schooling. Study well, and attend always.

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Counsel to Young Men
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 49–52

Baptized Too Soon? And Retaining A Remission of My Sins

I remember when I was “[baptized] by immersion for the remission of sins.”15 That was appealing. I assumed that all my past mistakes were now washed away, and if I never made any more mistakes in my life, I would be clean. This I resolved to do. Somehow it did not turn out that way. I found that I made mistakes, not intentionally, but I made them. I once foolishly thought maybe I was baptized too soon. I did not understand that the ordinance of the sacrament, administered by you of the Aaronic Priesthood, is in fact a renewing of the covenant of baptism and the reinstating of the blessings connected with it. I did not see, as the revelations tell us, that I could “retain a remission of [my] sins.”16


Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Counsel to Young Men
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 49–52

The Prayerful Power of Your Spirit Will Protect You

You are not to be fearful. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that “all beings who have bodies have power over those who have not.”13 And Lehi taught that all “men are instructed sufficiently that they know good from evil.”14 Remember, the prayerful power of your spirit will protect you.

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Counsel to Young Men
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 49–52

Do Not Run With Friends That Worry Your Parents

Do not run with friends that worry your parents.

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Counsel to Young Men
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 49–52

The Priesthood Is Something You Cannot See Nor Hear Nor Touch, But It Is A Real Authority And A Real Power

The priesthood is something you cannot see nor hear nor touch, but it is a real authority and a real power.

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Counsel to Young Men
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 49–52

They Want It Straight, Undiluted.

When I began my teaching career, President J. Reuben Clark Jr., the First Counselor in the First Presidency, had spoken to teachers. His words went into my heart and influenced me ever since.

President Clark described youth as “hungry for things of the Spirit [and] eager to learn the gospel.” He said: “They want it straight, undiluted. They want to know … about our beliefs; they want to gain testimonies of their truth. They are not now doubters but inquirers, seekers after truth.”

President Clark continued: “You do not have to sneak up behind this spiritually experienced youth and whisper religion in [their] ears; you can come right out, face to face, and talk with [them]. … You can bring these truths to [them] openly. … There is no need for gradual approaches.”9

Since then I have taught young people in the same way that I teach adults.
Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Counsel to Young Men
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 49–52

When We Keep the Temple Covenants...Then Come What May

What I am trying to teach is that when we keep the temple covenants we have made and when we live righteously in order to maintain the blessings promised by those ordinances, then come what may, we have no reason to worry or to feel despondent.

Author:Richard G. Scott
Title: Temple Worship: The Source of Strength and Power in Times of Need
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 43–45

We Should Never Complain, When We Are Living Worthily, About What Happens In Our Lives

We should never complain, when we are living worthily, about what happens in our lives.

Author:Richard G. Scott
Title: Temple Worship: The Source of Strength and Power in Times of Need
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 43–45

I Have Never Asked Why But Rather What Is It That He Wants Me to Learn From This Experience

I have never asked why but rather what is it that He wants me to learn from this experience. I believe that is a good way to face the unpleasant things in our lives, not complaining but thanking the Lord for the trust He places in us when He gives us the opportunity to overcome difficulties.

Author:Richard G. Scott
Title: Temple Worship: The Source of Strength and Power in Times of Need
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 43–45

Nothing Can Ever Go Permanently Wrong....Winds Blew Against Both Houses

President Howard W. Hunter said: “If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and his teachings, no other success can ever be permanently right” (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, ed. Clyde J. Williams [1997], 40)....that the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew against both houses!

Author: Rafael E. Pino
Title: Faith in Adversity
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 41–42

A Lack of Confidence in One's Self or Abilities Is Inconssistent With Our Divine Identity

[A] lack of confidence in one’s self or abilities. It is inconsistent with our divine identity as children of God.
Author: Kevin W. Pearson
Title: Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 38–40

If We Do Not Give Them Faith in Christ, We Have Given Little

We can give our children education, lessons, athletics, the arts, and material possessions, but if we do not give them faith in Christ, we have given little....When we teach our children by example or precept to be casual or situational in obeying God’s commandments, we prevent them from receiving this vital spiritual gift. Faith requires an attitude of exact obedience, even in the small, simple things.

Author: Kevin W. Pearson
Title: Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 38–40

Widely Held Belief is Not Scriptural

with respect to the doctrine that revelation still exists, some very good people have been confident that the Church could not be true because they have been taught, and therefore believe, that the heavens are closed and there will be no additional revelation, no scripture, and no pronouncements from heaven. Let me emphasize that this widely held belief is not scriptural, but it is a stumbling block to some.10

Author: Quentin L. Cook
Title: Our Father’s Plan—Big Enough for All His Children
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 34–38

The Difference Maker

And so it returns, as it always does, to your own personal faith and testimony. That is the difference-maker, my young brothers and sisters. That is how you know. That is how you avoid the mistakes of the past and take your spirituality to the next level....And how do you get such a testimony? Well, there’s no new technology for that, nor will there ever be. You cannot do a Google search to gain a testimony. You can’t text message faith. 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.

Author: M. Russell Ballard
Title: Learning the Lessons of the Past
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 31–34

Enduring--Well

Even when you feel the truth of that capacity and kindness of the Lord to deliver you in your trials, it may still test your courage and strength to endure.....The Lord will rescue His faithful disciples. And the disciple who accepts a trial as an invitation to grow and therefore qualify for eternal life can find peace in the midst of the struggle....Tragedy did not erode their faith; it tested it and strengthened it.

Author: Henry B. Eyring
Title: Adversity
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 23–27

The Holy Ghost is the Great Sanctifier

In all the ordinances, especially those of the temple, we are endowed with power from on high.4 This “power of godliness” comes in the person and by the influence of the Holy Ghost. The gift of the Holy Ghost is part of the new and everlasting covenant. It is an essential part of our baptism, the baptism of the Spirit. It is the messenger of grace by which the blood of Christ is applied to take away our sins and sanctify us (see 2 Nephi 31:17). It is the gift by which Adam was “quickened in the inner man” (Moses 6:65).

Author: D. Todd Christofferson
Title: The Power of Covenants
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 19–23

The Power of Covenants

This entire conference talk is a great resource on covenants.

Author: D. Todd Christofferson
Title: The Power of Covenants
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 19–23

Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Advisor

I invite quorum presidencies to ask the following questions and seek other questions the Spirit will inspire: What does an Aaronic Priesthood quorum president do to preside over a quorum? What are his duties? What does he do as he sits in council with quorum members? How and when does he teach? What are the covenants referenced in the verses (DC 107:85-89)? And what do the quorum adviser and the bishopric member do as each assists the president in his duties and in his use of priesthood keys of presidency?

Author: Michael A. Neider
Title: Revealed Quorum Principles
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 14–16

Harshness in Our Training Begets Resentment, Not Reverence

Harshness in our training begets resentment, not reverence.

Author: Margaret S. Lifferth
Title: Respect and Reverence
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 11–13

Reverence and Self Discipline

A toddler can learn to fold his arms and get ready for prayer. But it takes time, patience, and consistency. Remember that we are not only teaching a child his first lessons in reverence, but the child may be mastering his first attempts at self-discipline.

Author: Margaret S. Lifferth
Title: Respect and Reverence
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 11–13

Keep a Place in Your Heart for Forgiveness

A sister who had been through a painful divorce wrote of her experience in drawing from the Atonement. She said: “Our divorce … did not release me from the obligation to forgive. I truly wanted to do it, but it was as if I had been commanded to do something of which I was simply incapable.” Her bishop gave her some sound advice: “Keep a place in your heart for forgiveness, and when it comes, welcome it in.” Many months passed as this struggle to forgive continued. She recalled: “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.” 33

The injured should do what they can to work through their trials, and the Savior will “succor his people according to their infirmities.” 34 He will help us carry our burdens. Some injuries are so hurtful and deep that they cannot be healed without help from a higher power and hope for perfect justice and restitution in the next life. Since the Savior has suffered anything and everything that we could ever feel or experience, 35 He can help the weak to become stronger. He has personally experienced all of it. He understands our pain and will walk with us even in our darkest hours.

Author: James E. Faust
Title: The Atonement: Our Greatest Hope
Where: Ensign, Nov 2001, 18

The Ideal Family...Live for It, Pray for It...Don't Become Overanxious

Throughout your life on earth, seek diligently to fulfill the fundamental purposes of this life through the ideal family. While you may not have yet reached that ideal, do all you can through obedience and faith in the Lord to consistently draw as close to it as you are able. Let nothing dissuade you from that objective. If it requires fundamental changes in your personal life, make them. When you have the required age and maturity, obtain all of the ordinances of the temple you can receive. If for the present, that does not include sealing in the temple to a righteous companion, live for it. Pray for it. Exercise faith that you will obtain it. Never do anything that would make you unworthy of it. If you have lost the vision of eternal marriage, rekindle it. If your dream requires patience, give it...Don’t become overanxious. Do the best you can.

Author: Richard G. Scott
Title: First Things First
Where: Ensign, May 2001, 6
Scripture:
Why I liked it:

We Did Not Make The Rules; They Were Revealed as Commandments

Sometimes we are asked why we do not recognize this conduct as a diverse and acceptable lifestyle. This we cannot do. We did not make the laws; they were made in heaven "before the foundation of the world" (D&C 132:5; 124:41; see also Alma 22:13). We are servants only.
Just as with the prophets in ancient times, we have been "consecrated priests and teachers of this people, . . . [responsible to] magnify our office unto the Lord, taking upon us the responsibility, answering the sins of the people upon our own heads if we did not teach them the word of God with all diligence" (Jacob 1:18-19).
We understand why some feel we reject them. That is not true. We do not reject you, only immoral behavior. We cannot reject you, for you are the sons and daughters of God. We will not reject you, because we love you (see Heb. 12:6-9; Rom. 3:19; Hel. 15:3; D&C 95:1).
You may even feel that we do not love you. That also is not true. Parents know, and one day you will know, that there are times when parents and we who lead the Church must extend tough love when failing to teach and to warn and to discipline is to destroy.
We did not make the rules; they were revealed as commandments. We do not cause nor can we prevent the consequences if you disobey the moral laws (see D&C 101:78). In spite of criticism or opposition, we must teach and we must warn.
Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Ye Are the Temple of God
Where: Ensign, Nov 2000, 72–74

The Best Insurance Policy A Family Can Have

If the sail is set, the course will be right. If a family has a long tradition of having family home evening, if they have even cursory gospel study in the home, and if they gather together on a regular basis to pray in the home—that is a great advantage. Parents should do everything possible to accomplish those three things. That is the best insurance policy they can have.

Author: Bishop H. David Burton
Title: The Teachers Quorum
Where: Ensign, Feb 2005, 58–59

The Deacons Quorum

Why does the Church organize 12- and 13-year-old young men into deacons quorums?

Bishop H. David Burton, Presiding Bishop (above center): One very important reason is the effective use of priesthood keys. Priesthood keys grant authority to those who preside to give direction and bless lives. The president of a quorum uses those keys to bless the lives of quorum members and those who are recipients of the quorum members’ service.

Bishop Richard C. Edgley, First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric (above left): Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said in the June 2003 worldwide leadership training meeting that a quorum is three things. It’s a class, it’s a brotherhood, and it’s a service organization (see “Stake Administration,” 6; see also Stephen L Richards, in Conference Report, Oct. 1938, 118). Quorums bring young men together to fulfill those three purposes. I think much of our leadership emphasis in quorums is on the classroom and not as much on the brotherhood and service aspects. Those other aspects are important.

Bishop Burton: The classroom, while extremely important, is where the “theory” is learned. The “laboratory” where we apply that theory is service to others outside of the classroom. The main emphasis should be on how the young men carry out their duties (see D&C 20:57, 59, 60).

What should be the role of the deacons quorum adviser?

Bishop Keith B. McMullin, Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric (above right): One way we could broaden the brotherhood and service aspects of the quorum is to put the quorum president in his proper role. We tend to empower the adviser in a deacons quorum with more authority than we do the quorum president.

Bishop Burton: The adviser needs to develop the ability to be the “shadow leader” and somehow prompt the young men to perform their duties without the adviser becoming the effectual president of the quorum. Too often the quorum is a direct reflection of the current adviser.

Bishop McMullin: In my judgment, our deacons quorums are often simply doing what is expected of them by their advisers. When advisers understand what it means to lift and bless the young men in their priesthood office, we will see greater power. But as long as we view the deacons as youngsters who need to be entertained through some kind of activity incidental to their priesthood, then that is where our young men will tend to remain.

Bishop Edgley: Think of what would happen in a deacons quorum if there were enough chairs in the classroom for every member of the quorum, not just those who regularly attend, and if on the back of each chair was the name of one quorum member. The empty chairs would be very apparent to the quorum presidency. That’s one example of what could be done to enliven the quorum presidency and the quorum’s sense of the need to reach out to others.

How can adult leaders and advisers help deacons have spiritual experiences when many of a deacon’s duties may seem rather routine?

Bishop Edgley: Young people have to be led to spiritual experiences at that age. The experiences are not just going to happen on their own. I remember my father taking me to witness a priesthood blessing of a less-active member. I couldn’t participate other than being there and feeling the Spirit, but my dad explained the ordinance and led me to that spiritual experience.

Bishop McMullin: There is nothing routine about passing the sacrament—when one is spiritually enlightened. If a deacon is taught in an inspiring way about the emblems of the bread and water and what they mean to him personally and to every person who presses those emblems to his or her lips, then the sacrament becomes a sacred experience every Sabbath day (see 3 Ne. 18:5–6; D&C 20:77, 79). But typically what I see with our Aaronic Priesthood holders is that they are more worried about which rows they are passing the sacrament to or whom they should pass to first on the stand. In this way, it can become routine to the point that it has lost its special character. If advisers will teach the administrative details well ahead of time, the details won’t become distractions.

What are the biggest challenges deacons face today, and what can a quorum do to help?

Bishop Edgley: The biggest challenge for a deacon is feeling that he belongs, finding himself, feeling that he is important. We start losing young men at deacon age. They go where they feel accepted, and when you look at the drug culture, for example, it always accepts them. We’ve got to have them feel accepted in the right environment, with the right friends—and that’s in the quorum. They need to feel that they belong, that they’re safe, that they’re important. That is the brotherhood side of the quorum.

Bishop Burton: We’ve got to keep in mind that the Aaronic Priesthood is a preparatory priesthood in very real terms. Too often it becomes an end in itself. If our advisers and bishops will remember that this is the preparation for life and for the Melchizedek Priesthood, perhaps we could focus on preparing young men for the saving ordinances of the higher priesthood.

Title: The Deacons Quorum
Where: Ensign, Jan 2005, 54–55

Love of the Prophet, His Leadership, and A Roan Horse

I close by reading a simple yet profound letter that reflects our love for our prophet and his leadership:

“Dear President Monson,

“Five years ago, President Hinckley was sustained as prophet, seer and revelator. For me that was an extraordinary occasion which had to do with your calling for the sustaining vote of the Church.

“On that particular morning, I needed to haul hay for my livestock. I was enjoying conference on my truck radio. I had picked up the hay, backed into the barn and was throwing down hay bales from the back of the truck. When you called for the brethren of the priesthood, ‘wherever you are,’ to prepare to sustain the prophet, I wondered if you meant me. I wondered if the Lord would be offended because I was sweaty and covered with dust. But I took you at your word and climbed down from the truck.

“I shall never forget standing alone in the barn, hat in hand, with sweat running down my face, with arm to the square to sustain President Hinckley. Tears mixed with sweat as I sat for several minutes contemplating this sacred occasion.”

He continued:

“In our lives, we place ourselves at particular places when events of large consequence occur. That has happened to me, but none more spiritual or tender or memorable than that morning in the barn with only cows and a roan horse looking on.

“Sincerely,

“Clark Cederlof”

President Hinckley, we the priesthood brethren of the Church do love and sustain you.

Author:Thomas S. Monson
Title: The Call to Serve
Where: Ensign, Nov 2000, 47–49

He Who Reads It Oftenest Will Like It Best

He who reads it (the LDS Scriptures) oftenest will like it best, and he who is acquainted with it, will know the hand wherever he can see it; and when once discovered, it will not only receive an acknowledgment, but an obedience to all its heavenly precepts.

Author: Joseph Smith
Title: Chapter 4: The Book of Mormon: Keystone of Our Religion
Where: Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, (2007),57–68

Things Will Straighten Out

It was meant to be that life would be a challenge. To suffer some anxiety, some depression, some disappointment, even some failure is normal.

Teach our members that if they have a good, miserable day once in a while, or several in a row, to stand steady and face them. Things will straighten out.

There is great purpose in our struggle in life.

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Solving Emotional Problems in the Lord’s Own Way
Where: Ensign, Jan 2010, 50–51

He Is There By Earthly Men Holding the Priesthood

The temple is a place of revelation...Though He may not be there in person, He is there by His Holy Spirit and by earthly men holding the priesthood. By that Spirit they direct the Lord’s work here on earth. Every person who enters this sacred place in faith and prayer will find help in the solution of life’s problems.

Author: John A. Widtsoe
Title: Looking toward the Temple
Where: Ensign, Feb 2010, 36–38
Scripture:
Why I liked it:

If My Boy Needs Counseling, Bishop, It Should Be My Responsibility First, And Yours Second

… Fathers are responsible to preside over their families.

Sometimes, with all good intentions, we require so much of both the children and the father that he is not able to do so.

If my boy needs counseling, bishop, it should be my responsibility first, and yours second.

If my boy needs recreation, bishop, I should provide it first, and you second.

If my boy needs correction, that should be my responsibility first, and yours second.

If I am failing as a father, help me first, and my children second.

Do not be too quick to take over from me the job of raising my children.

Do not be too quick to counsel them and solve all of the problems. Get me involved. It is my ministry.

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Solving Emotional Problems in the Lord’s Own Way
Where: Ensign, Jan 2010, 50–51

Harmony In Marriage Comes Only When One Esteems the Welfare of His of Her Spouse Among the Highest of Priorities

Harmony in marriage comes only when one esteems the welfare of his or her spouse among the highest of priorities. When that really happens, a celestial marriage becomes a reality, bringing great joy in this life and in the life to come

Author: Russell M. Nelson
Title: Celestial Marriage
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 92–95

If We Are to Be Safe Individually, As Families, And Secure as A Church

It is my purpose to show that in troubled times the Lord has always prepared a safe way ahead. We live in those “perilous times” which the Apostle Paul prophesied would come in the last days.1 If we are to be safe individually, as families, and secure as a church, it will be through “obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.”2 Author: Boyd K. Packer Title: The Test Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 88–91

Focus on Flesh Instead of Faith

What could be more deceptive than to entice men—young and old, holding the holy priesthood of God—to view seductive pornography and thus focus on flesh instead of faith, to be consumers of vice rather than guardians of virtue?

Author: Elaine S. Dalton
Title: A Return to Virtue
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 78–80

The Lord Isn't Asking Us to Load Up a Handcart

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....This is not a time for the spiritually faint of heart.

Author: M. Russell Ballard
Title: The Truth of God Shall Go Forth
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 81–84

God Will Hold You Responsible for Those Whom You Migh Have Saved Had You Done Your Duty

Each priesthood holder attending this session tonight has a calling to serve, to put forth his best efforts in the work assigned to him. No assignment is menial in the work of the Lord, for each has eternal consequences. President John Taylor warned us, “If you do not magnify your callings, God will hold you responsible for those whom you might have saved had you done your duty.”7 And who of us can afford to be responsible for the delay of eternal life of a human soul? If great joy is the reward of saving one soul, then how terrible must be the remorse of those whose timid efforts have allowed a child of God to go unwarned or unaided so that he has to wait till a dependable servant of God comes along.

Author: Thomas S. Monson
Title: To Learn, to Do, to Be
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 60–62, 67–68

The Lord Isn't Going to Send the President of the Church or Peter James and John to that House. He is Sending You!

Every priesthood holder stands at a unique place and has an important task that only he can perform.

We all have heard stories of how President Monson visits and blesses the elderly and the sick, always attending to their needs and bringing them cheer, comfort, and love. President Monson has a natural way about him that makes people feel better about themselves. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if President Monson could visit and watch over every family in the Church?

It would. But, of course, he can’t—and he shouldn’t. The Lord has not asked him to do that. The Lord has asked us, as home teachers, to love and watch over our assigned families. The Lord has not asked President Monson to organize and conduct our family home evening. He wants us, as fathers, to do this.

You may feel that there are others who are more capable or more experienced who could fulfill your callings and assignments better than you can, but the Lord gave you your responsibilities for a reason. There may be people and hearts only you can reach and touch. Perhaps no one else could do it in quite the same way.

Our Heavenly Father asks that we represent Him in the noble work of reaching out and blessing the lives of His children. He asks us to stand firm with the power of the priesthood in our hearts and souls and give the calling we have at this moment our best efforts.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: Lift Where You Stand
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 53–56

Unique Place That Only We Can Perform

Every priesthood holder stands at a unique place and has an important task that only he can perform.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: Lift Where You Stand
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 53–56

Your Calling is An Opportunity to Become What Heavenly Father Wants You to Become

Whatever your calling, I urge you to see it as an opportunity not only to strengthen and bless others but also to become what Heavenly Father wants you to become.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: Lift Where You Stand
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 53–56

These Are Your Days

My dear brethren of the Aaronic Priesthood, these are your days! Do not squander them! Be sober! Take “the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall … quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”31 Then “fight the good fight of faith.”32 And when you have done all, “stand”33 still and “see the salvation of the Lord.”34 I assure you that His salvation will come, delivering you and yours from every evil.

Author: James J. Hamula
Title: Winning the War against Evil
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 50–53

Hold Your Wife

By divine design a woman is fundamentally different from a man in many ways.2 She is compassionate and seeks the interests of others around her. However, that compassionate nature can become overwhelming for women who identify far more to accomplish than they can possibly do, even with the help of the Lord. Some become discouraged because they do not feel they are doing all they should do. I believe this is a feeling that many worthy, effective, devoted women of the Church experience.

Therefore, as a husband or son, express gratitude for what your wife and mother do for you. Express your love and gratitude often. That will make life far richer, more pleasant and purposeful for many of the daughters of Father in Heaven who seldom hear a complimentary comment and are not thanked for the multitude of things they do. As a husband, when you sense that your wife needs lifting, hold her in your arms and tell her how much you love her. May each of us ever be tender and appreciative of the special women who enrich our lives.

Author: Richard G. Scott
Title: Honor the Priesthood and Use It Well
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 44–47

Pray Always

We learn from these verses that the spiritual creation preceded the temporal creation. In a similar way, meaningful morning prayer is an important element in the spiritual creation of each day—and precedes the temporal creation or the actual execution of the day. Just as the temporal creation was linked to and a continuation of the spiritual creation, so meaningful morning and evening prayers are linked to and are a continuation of each other.

Consider this example. 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. For example, as we pray, we might:

• • Reflect on those occasions when we have spoken harshly or inappropriately to those we love the most.

• • Recognize that we know better than this, but we do not always act in accordance with what we know.

• • Express remorse for our weaknesses and for not putting off the natural man more earnestly.

• • Determine to pattern our life after the Savior more completely.

• • Plead for greater strength to do and to become better.

Such a prayer is a key part of the spiritual preparation for our day.

During the course of the day, we keep a prayer in our heart for continued assistance and guidance—even as Alma suggested: “Let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord” (Alma 37:36).

We notice during this particular day that there are occasions where normally we would have a tendency to speak harshly, and we do not; or we might be inclined to anger, but we are not. We discern heavenly help and strength and humbly recognize answers to our prayer. Even in that moment of recognition, we offer a silent prayer of gratitude.

At the end of our day, we kneel again and report back to our Father. We review the events of the day and express heartfelt thanks for the blessings and the help we received. We repent and, with the assistance of the Spirit of the Lord, identify ways we can do and become better tomorrow. Thus our evening prayer builds upon and is a continuation of our morning prayer. And our evening prayer also is a preparation for meaningful morning prayer.

Morning and evening prayers—and all of the prayers in between—are not unrelated, discrete events; rather, they are linked together each day and across days, weeks, months, and even years. This is in part how we fulfill the scriptural admonition to “pray always” (Luke 21:36; 3 Nephi 18:15, 18; D&C 31:12). Such meaningful prayers are instrumental in obtaining the highest blessings God holds in store for His faithful children.

Author: David A. Bednar
Title: Pray Always
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 41–44

The Infinite Power of Hope

[My Mother'] faith overcame her fear, and her hope overcame her despair. She was not a woman who would sit and bemoan tragedy. She moved. She put her faith and hope into action....Hope is one leg of a three-legged stool, together with faith and charity. These three stabilize our lives regardless of the rough or uneven surfaces we might encounter at the time....Hope is not knowledge, but rather the abiding trust that the Lord will fulfill His promise to us...It is believing and expecting that our prayers will be answered. It is manifest in confidence, optimism, enthusiasm, and patient perseverance....Like Father Abraham, we will “against hope [believe] in hope....”Hope is critical to both faith and charity. When disobedience, disappointment, and procrastination erode faith, hope is there to uphold our faith.

Author: Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Title: The Infinite Power of Hope
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 21–24

A Private Priesthood Interview

For a few minutes I ask you to consider that you and I are alone in a quiet place where the atmosphere permits direction by the Holy Spirit. Some of you receive periodic personal worthiness interviews, while others have callings where that seldom occurs. Will you consider that in the next few minutes you and I will have a private priesthood interview?

As we share these moments together, I ask you to ponder your personal worthiness to use the sacred authority you hold. I will also ask you to consider how consistently you use your priesthood to bless others. My intent is not to criticize but to help increase the benefits that flow from your use of the priesthood.

Are your private, personal thoughts conducive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, or would they benefit from a thorough housecleaning? Do you nourish your mind with elevating material, or have you succumbed to the enticement of pornographic literature or Web sites? Do you scrupulously avoid the use of stimulants and substances that conflict with the intent of the Word of Wisdom, or have you made some personally rationalized exceptions? Are you most careful to control what enters your mind through your eyes and ears to ensure that it is wholesome and elevating?

If you are divorced, do you provide for the real financial need of the children you have fathered, not just the minimum legal requirement?

If you are married, are you faithful to your wife mentally as well as physically? Are you loyal to your marriage covenants by never engaging in conversation with another woman that you wouldn’t want your wife to overhear? Are you kind and supportive of your own wife and children? Do you assist your wife by doing some of the household chores? Do you lead out in family activities such as scripture study, family prayer, and family home evening, or does your wife fill in the gap your lack of attention leaves in the home? Do you tell her you love her?

If any of you feel uncomfortable with any of the answers you have mentally given to the questions I have asked, take corrective action now. If there are worthiness issues, with all of the tenderness of my heart I encourage you to speak to your bishop or a member of your stake presidency now. You need help. Those matters that trouble you will not heal themselves. Without attention they will likely get worse. It may be difficult for you to speak to your priesthood leader, but I encourage you to do it now for your own good and for the benefit of those who love you.

Author: Richard G. Scott
Title: Honor the Priesthood and Use It Well
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 44–47

Vicarious Immorality of Pornography

the vicarious immorality of pornography.

Author:D. Todd Christofferson
Title: Come to Zion
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 37–40

Come What May, And Love It

hen I was young I loved playing sports, and I have many fond memories of those days. But not all of them are pleasant. I remember one day after my football team lost a tough game, I came home feeling discouraged. My mother was there. She listened to my sad story. She taught her children to trust in themselves and each other, not blame others for their misfortunes, and give their best effort in everything they attempted.

When we fell down, she expected us to pick ourselves up and get going again. So the advice my mother gave to me then wasn’t altogether unexpected. It has stayed with me all my life.

“Joseph,” she said, “come what may, and love it.”

I have often reflected on that counsel.

I think she may have meant that every life has peaks and shadows and times when it seems that the birds don’t sing and bells don’t ring. Yet in spite of discouragement and adversity, those who are happiest seem to have a way of learning from difficult times, becoming stronger, wiser, and happier as a result.

Author: Joseph B. Wirthlin
Title: Come What May, and Love It
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 26–28

We Cannot Retain the Spirit Without Consistenly Partaking of the Sacrament

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)....We cannot retain the Spirit of the Lord if we do not consistently comply with this commandment.

Author: Dallin H. Oaks
Title: Sacrament Meeting and the Sacrament
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 17–20

Faith is a Choice

Faith is not only a feeling; it is a decision. He would need to choose faith.

Author: Neil L. Andersen
Title: You Know Enough
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 13–14

My Mission Means Everything to Me.

My mission means everything to me 47 years after the fact. There may have been one day in those 47 years that I have not thought of my mission; I’m just not sure what day that would have been.”5

Author: Jeffrey R. Holland
Title: The Atonement (seminar for new mission presidents, June 26, 2007, 1.)
Quoted by Silvia H. Allred Nov. 2008 Ensign p.11

Members of a Well-Managed Family Do Not Pay Interst; They Earn It

Members of a well-managed family do not pay interest; they earn it.

Author:L. Tom Perry
Title: Let Him Do It with Simplicity
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 7–10

Very Casual Dress is Almost Always Followed By Very Casual Manners

I believe very casual dress is almost always followed by very casual manners.

Author:L. Tom Perry
Title: Let Him Do It with Simplicity
Where: Ensign, Nov 2008, 7–10

The New and Everlasting Covenant Defined

The scriptures speak of the new and everlasting covenant. The new and everlasting covenant is the gospel of Jesus Christ. In other words, the doctrines and commandments of the gospel constitute the substance of an everlasting covenant between God and man that is newly restored in each dispensation. If we were to state the new and everlasting covenant in one sentence it would be this: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

Author: D. Todd Christofferson
Title: The Power of Covenants
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 19–23

Bad Soil for the Spirit

When...our outlook is dominated by skepticism, cynicism,[and] criticism...the Spirit cannot be with us.
Author: Robert D. Hales
Title: Seeking to Know God, Our Heavenly Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ
Where: Ensign, Nov 2009, 29–32

Never Too Busy For Deacons Quorum Work

Fulfilling priesthood assignments was a priority, as the following account illustrates: “As part of their job, the deacons hitched up horse and buggy each month before fast day and went house-to-house collecting offerings for the poor of the Church. Afterwards they took their gatherings to the bishop—bottles of fruit, flour, squash, honey, occasionally a half-dollar or so in loose change. So eager was Andrew to teach his boy his duty that nothing else interfered with Spencer’s collection on that day. The Kimball horse and buggy was never too busy to be used for deacons quorum work."

Title: The Life and Ministry of Spencer W. Kimball
Where: Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball, (2006),xiv–xxxvii

There Will Be Nothing In This World That Can Defeat Us

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.

Author: Thomas S. Monson
Title: Be of Good Cheer
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 89–92

He Set a Course For Each of Us

[Heavenly Father] set a course for each of us that can polish and perfect us to be with Him.

Author: Henry B. Eyring
Title: Adversity
Where: Ensign, May 2009, 23–27
Why I liked it: This has a familiar cord with what Bishop Keith B. McMullan shared in our Stake Conference Spring '09, "all things that are happening now in the world are in accordance with the plan of our Heavenly Father."

GO ON! (The Parable of the Owl Express)

During my college days, I was one of a class of students appointed to fieldwork as a part of our prescribed courses in geology—the science that deals with the earth in all of its varied aspects and phases, but more particularly with its component rocks, the structural features they present, the changes they have undergone and are undergoing—the science of worlds.

A certain assignment had kept us in the field many days. We had traversed, examined, and charted miles of lowlands and uplands, valleys and hills, mountain heights and canyon defiles. As the time allotted to the investigation drew near its close, we were overtaken by a violent windstorm, followed by a heavy snow—unseasonable and unexpected, but which, nevertheless, increased in intensity so that we were in danger of being snowbound in the hills. The storm reached its height while we were descending a long and steep mountainside several miles from the little railway station at which we had hoped to take [a] train that night for home. With great effort we reached the station late at night while the storm was yet raging. We were suffering from the intense cold incident to biting wind and driving snow; and, to add to our discomfiture, we learned that the expected train had been stopped by snowdrifts a few miles from the little station at which we waited.

… The train for which we so expectantly and hopefully waited was the Owl Express—a fast night train connecting large cities. Its time schedule permitted stops at but few and these the most important stations; but, as we knew, it had to stop at this out-of-the-way post to replenish the water supply of the locomotive.

Long after midnight the train arrived in a terrific whirl of wind and snow. I lingered behind my companions as they hurriedly clambered aboard, for I was attracted by the engineer, who during the brief stop, while his assistant was attending to the water replenishment, bustled about the engine, oiling some parts, adjusting others, and generally overhauling the panting locomotive. I ventured to speak to him, busy though he was. I asked how he felt on such a night—wild, weird, and furious, when the powers of destruction seemed to be let loose, abroad and uncontrolled, when the storm was howling and when danger threatened from every side. I thought of the possibility—the probability even—of snowdrifts or slides on the track, of bridges and high trestles which may have been loosened by the storm, of rock masses dislodged from the mountainside—of these and other possible obstacles. I realized that in the event of accident through obstruction on or disruption of the track, the engineer and the fireman would be the ones most exposed to danger; a violent collision would most likely cost them their lives. All of these thoughts and others I expressed in hasty questioning of the bustling, impatient engineer.

His answer was a lesson not yet forgotten. In effect he said, though in jerky and disjointed sentences: “Look at the engine headlight. Doesn’t that light up the track for a hundred yards [90 m] or more? Well, all I try to do is to cover that hundred yards of lighted track. That I can see, and for that distance I know the roadbed is open and safe. And,” he added, with what, through the swirl and the dim lamplighted darkness of the roaring night, I saw was a humorous smile on his lips and a merry twinkle of his eye, “believe me, I have never been able to drive this old engine of mine—God bless her!—so fast as to outstrip that hundred yards of lighted track. The light of the engine is always ahead of me!”

As he climbed to his place in the cab, I hastened to board the first passenger coach; and as I sank into the cushioned seat, in blissful enjoyment of the warmth and general comfort, offering strong contrast to the wildness of the night without, I thought deeply of the words of the grimy, oil-stained engineer. They were full of faith—the faith that accomplishes great things, the faith that gives courage and determination, the faith that leads to works. What if the engineer had failed, had yielded to fright and fear, had refused to go on because of the threatening dangers? Who knows what work may have been hindered, what great plans may have been nullified, what God-appointed commissions of mercy and relief may have been thwarted had the engineer weakened and quailed?

For a little distance the storm-swept track was lighted up; for that short space the engineer drove on!

We may not know what lies ahead of us in the future years, nor even in the days or hours immediately beyond. But for a few yards, or possibly only a few feet, the track is clear, our duty is plain, our course is illumined. For that short distance, for the next step, lighted by the inspiration of God, go on!

Author: James E. Talmage
Title:Three Parables—The Unwise Bee, the Owl Express, and Two Lamps
Where: Ensign, Feb 2003, 8

Spiritually Immunize Your Children

With the proper serum, the physical body is protected against disease. We can also protect our children from moral and spiritual diseases. The word inoculate has two parts: in—“to be within”—and oculate means “eye to see.” When children are baptized and confirmed (see D&C 20:41, 43; D&C 33:15), we place an eye within them—the unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost (see D&C 121:26)....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.... While we cannot erase wickedness, we can produce young Latter-day Saints who, spiritually nourished, are immunized against evil influences.

Author: Boyd K. Packer
Title: Do Not Fear
Where: Liahona, May 2004, 77–80

1

Our Safety Lies in Repentance

Now, brothers and sisters, we must do our duty, whatever that duty might be. Peace may be denied for a season. Some of our liberties may be curtailed. We may be inconvenienced. We may even be called on to suffer in one way or another. But God our Eternal Father will watch over this nation and all of the civilized world who look to Him. He has declared, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” (Ps. 33:12). Our safety lies in repentance. Our strength comes of obedience to the commandments of God.

Author: Gordon B. Hinckley
Title: The Times in Which We Live
Where: Ensign, Nov 2001, 72

When In Situations of Stress

When, in situations of stress, we wonder if there is any more in us to give, we can be comforted to know that God, who knows our capacities perfectly, placed us here to succeed. No one was foreordained to fail or to be wicked.

When we have been weighed and found wanting, let us remember that we were measured before and were found equal to our tasks; and therefore, let us continue but with a more determined discipleship.

When we feel overwhelmed, let us recall the assurance that God will not overprogram us; he will not press upon us more than we can bear (see D&C 50:40).

Author: Neal A. Maxwell
Title: A More Determined Discipleship
Where: Ensign, Feb 1979, 69–73

Command the Respect and Admiration of Your Associates in All Walks of Lifei

Life gives to all the choice. You can satisfy yourself with mediocrity if you wish. You can be common, ordinary, dull, colorless; or you can channel you life so that it will be clean, vibrant, progressive, useful, colorful, rich. You can soil your record, defile your soul, trample underfoot virtue, honor, and goodness, and thus forfeit an exaltation in the kingdom of God. Or you can be righteous, commanding the respect and admiration of your associates in all walks of life, and enjoying the love of the Lord. Your destiny is in your hands and your all-important decisions are your own to make.

Author: Spencer W. Kimball
Title: The Miracle of Forgiveness, p.236

Do Not Delay

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. Author:Henry B. Eyring Title: Do Not Delay Where: Ensign, Nov 1999, 33

See Also:

http://quotestokeep.blogspot.com/2022/08/daily-prayer.html

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As You Serve Him...the Benediction On This Day, On Every Day , And On Our Lives

As you serve Him, you will come to know better the voice by which you shall be called. When you go to sleep at the end of a day, the words may come back in memory: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things.”10 I pray for that benediction on this day, on every day, and on our lives.

Author: Henry B. Eyring
Title: This Day
Where: Ensign, May 2007, 89–91

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They Are the Future of the Church

Often we equate the reverence of a congregation with the behavior of the children present. True, young children can provide a special challenge to reverence. But the first rule with respect to children is to bring them! They can be taught, they can be taken out, and they can be brought back into the meeting. And in the teaching it is better to minimize the number of training tools that are brought to church, such as toys and food. Latter-day Saint congregations are generally blessed with large numbers of children and youth, and we should be thankful for this. They are the future of the Church.


Author:Robert C. Oaks
Title: Worship through Reverence
Where: Ensign, Dec 2009, 20–23

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When You Go Home Do Not Forget Them

Now, you missionaries, you are part of this responsibility of binding your converts to the Church. You may not be able to continue to visit them. But you can write them occasionally and give them encouragement. I hope that every one of you will make a record in your scriptures of every man, woman, and child whom you baptize, together with their home addresses. Your penmanship may be terrible, but an occasional note from you will give reassurance and comfort and a rekindling of joy. When you go home do not forget them. At all times live worthy of their trust. Write to them occasionally, assuring them of your love.


Author: Gordon B. Hinckley
Title: Find the Lambs, Feed the Sheep
Where: Ensign, May 1999, 104

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By These Means Only May the Spirit of God Become An Abiding Part

To eat the flesh and drink the blood of Christ was and is to believe in and accept Him as the literal Son of God and Savior of the world, and to obey His commandments. By these means only may the Spirit of God become an abiding part of man's individual being, even as the substance of the food he eats is assimilated with the tissues of his body.

Author: James E. Talmage
Title: Jesus the Christ
Where: Jesus the Christ p. 318

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