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MARRIAGE

“The Lord’s prophets have taught that “The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan” (from “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” [1995]). What a blessing it is for the Lord’s missionaries to demonstrate and teach this sacred truth. How can we best follow the Spirit in bearing our testimonies about the sacred nature of marriage so that our listeners can follow the Lord to their heavenly home of eternal glory where they can be together forever?”

The union of man and woman in marriage brings together God’s greatest creations. Marriage and sealing in the temple of our Lord is for time and all eternity. This is the ultimate ordinance and covenant that makes possible exaltation and eternal lives. If we are true and faithful to the new and everlasting covenant of marriage, we can have eternal increase (see D&C 131; 132:19). Each spouse should make his or her primary concern the well-being and happiness of the companion. In this union, the purpose is to create a family. The family should live in love and harmony so as to help each member become a disciple of Jesus Christ and build up the kingdom of God here upon the earth.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

Moses 3:24. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife; and they shall be one flesh.

The unity of husband and wife brings a oneness like unto the Godhead—one in purpose, cause, and action. President Marion G. Romney provided the following commentary on the meaning of one flesh: “They [husband and wife] should be one in harmony, respect, mutual consideration. Neither should plan or follow an independent course of action. They should consult, plan and decide together” (Ensign, December 1978, 2). Unity is the key. If we are not one, we are not the Lord’s (see D&C 38:27).

Doctrine and Covenants 49:15–16. And again, verily I say unto you, that whoso forbiddeth to marry is not ordained of God, for marriage is ordained of God unto man. Wherefore, it is lawful that he should have one wife, and they twain shall be one flesh, and all this that the earth might answer the end of its creation.

Marriage is not only ordained of God, but is the very institution without which the plan of salvation and the purpose for which the earth was created would have been in vain. The earth is for the physical creation and testing of Heavenly Father’s children.

Doctrine and Covenants 131:2–4. And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage]; And if he does not, he cannot obtain it. He may enter into the other, but that is the end of his kingdom; he cannot have an increase.

Only those who are married for time and all eternity in the temple and honor their covenants can have the blessings of eternal increase.

Doctrine and Covenants 132:19–20. And again, verily I say unto you, if a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law, and by the new and everlasting covenant, and it is sealed unto them by the Holy Spirit of promise, by him who is anointed, unto whom I have appointed this power and the keys of this priesthood; and it shall be said unto them—Ye shall come forth in the first resurrection; . . . and shall inherit thrones, kingdoms, principalities, and powers, dominions, all heights and depths . . . and if ye abide in my covenant, and commit no murder whereby to shed innocent blood, it shall be done unto them in all things whatsoever my servant hath put upon them, in time, and through all eternity; and shall be of full force when they are out of the world; and they shall pass by the angels, and the gods, which are set there, to their exaltation and glory in all things, as hath been sealed upon their heads, which glory shall be a fulness and a continuation of the seeds forever and ever. . . . Then shall they be gods, because they have all power, and the angels are subject unto them.

These verses explain all the blessings of the Lord to those who are faithful to their temple marriage vows. These include the blessings of the first resurrection, thrones, kingdoms, principalities, powers, dominions, exaltation, glory in all things, continuation of the seeds forever and ever (eternal increase), becoming gods (Abraham, Isaac and Jacob have already entered into this state; see D&C 132:37), and having all power (see D&C 84:38). These are our blessings if we are faithful in keeping our covenants. Understanding and appreciating these magnificent blessings should give us the desire and commitment to make and keep these sacred covenants. 

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

 Gordon B. Hinckley:

Perhaps our greatest concern is with families. The family is falling apart all over the world. The old ties that bound together father and mother and children are breaking everywhere. We must face this in our own midst. There are too many broken homes among our own. The love that led to marriage somehow evaporates, and hatred fills its place. Hearts are broken, children weep. Can we not do better? Of course, we can. It is selfishness that brings about most of these tragedies. If there is forbearance, if there is forgiveness, if there is an anxious looking after the happiness of one’s companion, then love will flourish and blossom. (“Look to the Future,” Ensign, November 1997, 67)

If you will make your first concern the comfort, the well-being, and the happiness of your companion, sublimating any personal concern to that loftier goal, you will be happy, and your marriage will go on through eternity. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 328–29)

Ezra Taft Benson:

Marriage, designed to be an eternal covenant, is the most glorious and most exalting principle of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Faithfulness to the marriage covenant brings the fullest joy here and glorious rewards hereafter. The abuse of this sacred ordinance despoils the lives of individuals, wrecks the basic institution of the home, and causes the downfall of nations.

Marriage, the home, and family are more than mere social institutions. They are divine, not man-made. God ordained marriage from the very beginning. In the record of that first marriage recorded in Genesis, the Lord makes four significant pronouncements: first, that it is not good for man to be alone; second, that woman was created to be a helpmeet for man; third, that they twain should be one flesh; and fourth, that man should leave father and mother and cleave unto his wife. (See Genesis 2:18, 24.) (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 534)

Howard W. Hunter:

There is no more powerful principle of life to promote love, forbearance, and devotion in the home than that of eternal marriage. Good adjustment and performance in adult life depend largely on the quality of home life. The principle of eternal marriage is a most powerful stabilizing influence in promoting the kind of home needed to rear children who are happy and well adjusted. (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1997], 131)

Harold B. Lee:

You young men must ever keep in mind that your lovely companion is possessed of finer sensibilities than you, and if your private conduct is brutal or beastly, bitterness and even disgust may drive out of her heart the affection and regard she once held for you. Both of you must remember that the prime purpose of your marriage under God’s command is to build the bridge from the eternity of spirits to mortality, over which God’s spirit children might come into mortal bodies. Your failure to remember that revealed truth will be your failure to attain the highest bliss in married life. (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1996], 239)

 IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here is a list of ten helpful hints for a successful marriage:

1. Love—Show your love, both verbally and by your actions.

2. Vision—Share with your spouse a common vision for your marriage. Counsel together often.

3. Flexibility—Always be willing to accommodate each other. Remember, if it is important to your mate, it is important to you.

4. Respect—Always remember that selfishness is the destroyer of all relationships. Mutual respect is built on trust, commitment, and love.

5. Togetherness—Do things together. Pray together, search the scriptures together, eat together, read together, play together, shop together, work together, raise your children together—in essence, whenever possible, do all things together.

6. Admiration—Look for the good in each other. You might even write a love letter listing all the reasons why you love your spouse.

7. Enjoyment—Go on a weekly date and have fun together.

8. Communication—Talk to each other. Communicate your needs, desires, and wishes rather than experiencing unrealized expectations, which often results in negative feelings.

9. Joy—There is nothing more joyful than a happy marriage and family. Write a list of things you and your spouse can do that will bring joy and happiness to your marriage.

10. Goals—Set some goals and make some plans to achieve the “vision” of your marriage, making it one worthy to be called celestial.

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIME

Author Richard J. Allen discusses the importance of eternal vision and perspective in making our marriages celestial.

The Mirror of Majesty

In our neighborhood is a venerated senior couple whose manner of living reflects the epitome of the “godly walk and conversation” (D&C 20:69) to which all Saints should aspire. The friendly glow in their countenances is consistently the same, whether they are seen in public places or in the privacy of their home. They are a celestial pair who have devoted their years to service—service to others as well as to each other. In visiting them one day, I was favored with an explanation of the unusual mirror mounted high on the wall of the entrance to their home opposite a lofty upper window. The man of the house explained that his wife was unable to view the majestic nearby mountain peak from the lower windows of the house; thus he had mounted the large mirror so that, in passing, she could look up and view the towering summit of the mountain. Similarly, in the small fenced garden behind the house, he had mounted another large mirror at just the right angle so that his wife could look through the window facing the garden and catch a glimpse of a second inspiring mountain vista and thus feel edified and liberated from the confines of the condo walls.

Celestial marriage is like that—each partner taking every opportunity to discover ways of lifting the other, strengthening faith, illuminating the pathway, giving encouragement, and opening the view to higher aspirations and blessings of a heavenly nature. When the Prophet Isaiah looked forward with visionary eyes to see the latter-days, he used the image of the mountain as an emblem of the house of the Lord: “Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths” (Isaiah 2:3). Similarly, speaking of the faithful, “Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer” (Isaiah 56:7). Every couple who makes sacred covenant vows at the altars of the holy temple embarks on a straight and narrow pathway leading to the lofty and sublime spiritual domain of the Lord characterized as eternal rest, “which rest is the fulness of his glory” (D&C 84:24).

Both partners in a celestial marriage have the transcendent commission of helping one another keep in view the future goal of glory and eternal lives promised to the valiant and obedient. With the eyes of faith, the covenant pair can view in the mirror of the majesty of truth “the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” (1 Cor. 2:9). What is seen now with but limited, earthly vision shall eventually be viewed in resplendent actuality, for the righteous shall transition “to their exaltation and glory in all things, as hath been sealed upon their heads, which glory shall be a fulness and a continuation of the seeds forever and ever. Then shall they be gods, because they have no end” (D&C 132:19–20).

—Richard J. Allen

SUMMARY

The list of helpful hints could go on and on but the main thing is to care for each other. The world is full of separation and divorce, which always bring sadness to those involved. The world is also full of happy marriages and families, invariably based on commitment, tireless effort, courtesy, charity, and spiritual unity. Celestial marriage is heavenly: it is eternal marriage sanctioned and commissioned by the Almighty, anchored in covenant fidelity, vitalized by the Holy Spirit, infused with lasting bonds of love, and edified by the saving and enduring principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

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MISSIONARY WORK

“What is our most important duty as members of the Lord’s Church? The Prophet Joseph Smith declared: “After all that has been said, the greatest and most important duty is to preach the Gospel” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1976], p. 113). Sharing the gospel with others is a sacred duty for all the honorable and faithful Saints of God. How can we follow this counsel effectively in our service of love for the Lord, having been “Called to Serve” (LDS Hymn 249) with honor and dignity?”

Why is missionary work emphasized so much in the Church? Why do we have over 60,000 missionaries in the field sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ? The answer is simply that souls are precious, and that in the dispensation of the fulness of times we have a duty to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people (see Morm. 9:22). The Prophet Joseph reminds us, “After all that has been said, the greatest and most important duty is to preach the gospel” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 113). Proclaiming the gospel is part of the three-fold mission of the Church to invite all to “come unto Christ.” The work and glory of Heavenly Father and our Savior is to bring about the immortality and eternal life of mankind (see Moses 1:39). As disciples of Jesus Christ, we have been foreordained to assist with this work (see Jacob 5:70–75; Alma 13:3–7; D&C 138:53–57).

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

Mark 16:15. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. (See also Matt. 28:19; 2 Cor. 4:5; Rev. 14:7; Alma 29:8; Morm. 9:22; D&C 39:15; 84:87; 90:11; Moses 8:19.)

We have been called to take the gospel to all the earth by the resurrected Savior Himself. We are witnesses of Christ, His gospel, and His kingdom, wherever we are (see Mosiah 18:9).

Mosiah 28:3. Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not bear that any human soul should perish; yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble.

When we realize the value of the souls of mankind, we will have an overwhelming desire to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, which effort will bring us eternal satisfaction, glory, and joy (see Alma 29:9–10). Sharing the gospel and bringing souls unto Christ is the work that is of most worth to us and to God (see D&C 15:6).

Doctrine and Covenants 11:21. Seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain my word, and then shall your tongue be loosed; then, if you desire, you shall have my Spirit and my word, yea, the power of God unto the convincing of men.

To be good missionaries, we need to first know the word of God: to be prepared. As we treasure up the word, the Lord can give us access to it at the very moment we need it (see D&C 84:85). When we open our mouths with courage and faith, the Holy Spirit will inspire us to say the words the Lord would have us say (D&C 33:8–11; 100:5–6).

Doctrine and Covenants 31:3–5. Lift up your heart and rejoice, for the hour of your mission is come; and your tongue shall be loosed, and you shall declare glad tidings of great joy unto this generation. You shall declare the things which have been revealed to my servant, Joseph Smith, Jun. You shall begin to preach from this time forth, yea, to reap in the field which is white already to be burned. Therefore, thrust in your sickle with all your soul, and your sins are forgiven you, and you shall be laden with sheaves upon your back, for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Wherefore, your family shall live.

When we serve as member missionaries, ward missionaries, or full-time missionaries, we will declare glad tidings to all those with whom we come in contact. As we help people come unto Christ by teaching and bearing testimony, they are converted by the Spirit and we are both blessed—our joy is great (see Alma 36:24), our sins are forgiven (see James 5:20; D&C 31:5; 62:3), and our friends have the blessing of the gospel in their lives.

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Spencer W. Kimball:

The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel for all the world and for all people. We proclaim the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of all mankind. We proclaim the divine sonship of Jesus Christ and him crucified, that his divine sacrifice was a ransom for all mankind. We bear witness of his resurrection and that he lives today, standing at the right hand of God, to guide the affairs of his earthly kingdom. (“The Stone Cut without Hands,” Ensign, May 1976, 4)

Gordon B. Hinckley:

It is our duty, divinely imposed, to continue urgently and militantly to carry forward our missionary work. We must continue to call missionaries and send them out to preach the gospel, which was never more needed than now, which is the only remedy for the tragic ills that now afflict the world, and which alone can bring peace and brotherly love back amongst the peoples of the earth. . . .

I think every member of the Church has the capacity to teach the gospel to nonmembers. I was told the other day of a crippled woman, homebound, who spends her days in a wheelchair, who has been the means of bringing thirty-seven people into the Church. . . . We need an awareness, an everyday awareness of the great power that we have to do this thing. . . .

It is an inspiring experience . . . to witness the manner in which the Lord is weaving the tapestry of his grand design in those foreign parts of the earth. He is gathering his children there as elsewhere—“one of a city and two of a family.” He is remembering the promises made of old as he works among those who have seen so much of poverty and misery and evil and oppression. He is answering the prayers of those who have gone before, and who struggled to establish a foothold for the gospel in those distant places. . . .

The work is becoming very much enlarged. It does require a commensurate accumulation of men and means. It requires an expansion of mind and energy, ability and perseverance. Let us prepare ourselves more diligently for the great assignment which God has laid upon us to carry this work to the children of the earth wherever we may be permitted to go. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 367).

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here are three ideas to help us understand the importance of missionary work and our role as missionaries:

1. Souls are precious.

●    God’s work is centered in His children—All of the work of our Heavenly Father and our Savior centers in us. Their work and their glory is to bring to pass our immortality and eternal life (see Moses 1:39). They joy in a soul that repents, as should we.

●    Share the gospel—Put yourself on the line and bear your testimony to someone you know. Do this because you love all of God’s children and want them to have the same blessings you have.

2. Prepare well to be an instrument in the hand of the Lord.

●    Search the scriptures—Learn the word of God. Make a plan to study the scriptures and other helpful material regularly in preparation for missionary service (see D&C 11:21).

●    Strengthen your faith—Fast and pray to become strong in humility and firm in your faith (see Hel. 3:35).

●    Experience the mighty change of heart—Repent so you can be a clean instrument in the hands of the Lord, genuinely worthy of the Spirit. If you are not truly converted and devoted to the Lord’s cause, you cannot help convert others.

●    Build your testimony—Gain a strong testimony of the gospel and the Church through study, prayer, keeping the commandments, and bearing your testimony often.

●    Develop a good work ethic—Missionary work requires industry, devotion, energy, and productive effort.

●    Prepare every needful thing—Make an additional list of things you can do personally to better prepare for missionary service.

3. Take action.

●    Missionary work is the work of the Lord’s disciples—Disciples of Christ help in the conversion, retention, and activation process. Remember, you are a disciple wherever you go (see Mosiah 18:9).

●    Use the proven system—Missionary work involves finding, teaching, baptizing, and fellowshipping new converts into the Church. We find by opening our mouths; the Lord will help us identify those who are willing to listen (see D&C 84:85–88). We teach by the Spirit (see Alma 17:2–3; D&C 50:17–22). We baptize those who are prepared and willing to make the commitment (D&C 20:37). We fellowship and love them into the Church by being a friend and strengthening them (see Moro. 6:4; D&C 108:7).

●    Be systematic—As members, we can set goals to help people come into the Church as follows: (1) Set a date to have one or more prospective converts prepared to hear the gospel; (2) prayerfully select a person or persons; (3) build a relationship of trust so that they will be willing to listen to you; (4) prepare them to hear the missionaries; (5) invite them to hear the missionaries and pray that they will receive a witness of the truthfulness of the gospel.

●    Remember to pray—As members of the Church, we should always pray for those who do not know God that a way might come about for them to receive the word (see Alma 6:6).

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

The following discusses the importance of the Book of Mormon in converting souls to the truthfulness of the restored gospel.

Sprouting Seeds

The Book of Mormon is the textbook of conversion. One of its principal figures and teachers, Alma the Younger, compares faith to a seed and inspires his listeners to undertake a most practical strategy in spiritual horticulture: “But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words” (Alma 32:27). He then gives his memorable counsel for understanding how the Lord cultivates within us the power to rise to our divine potential based on faith. Thus the Book of Mormon contains the inspired instructions according to which it is to be applied as an instrument of faith in the lives of its readership.

From the earliest days of the Restoration, the Book of Mormon has served as a magnet to draw truth-seekers into the fold. Take the story of Joseph Smith’s younger brother, Samuel Harrison Smith, who as a twenty-two-year-old returned from his mission somewhat discouraged with the results. But look what came of his labors: On Saturday, April 14, 1832, Brigham Young, “the Lion of the Lord” (HC, 7:435), was baptized after two years of intensive study and prayer centered on the Book of Mormon, a copy of which his brother Phineas had given him. Phineas had purchased the copy from the Prophet’s younger brother, Samuel Harrison, in April 1830, during the latter’s early missionary labors. Samuel also provided a copy to Reverend John P. Greene, husband of Phineas’ sister, Rhoda. Both were subsequently converted. Brigham Young had given his copy of the Book of Mormon to his sister, Fanny Young Murray, the mother-in-law of Heber C. Kimball, who, along with his family, also became converted because of it. These families were thus brought into the Church through the Book of Mormon. And the Book of Mormon became accessible to them as a result of the devoted missionary labors of the twenty-two-year-old Samuel Harrison Smith. Young Samuel had returned home discouraged from this early mission to upstate New York—unaware at the time that his labors would eventually yield such extraordinary fruit. (See Church History in the Fulness of Times, 74–75.)

The sprouting seeds that come from a sincere study of the Book of Mormon lead to the growth and maturation of a tree of faith: “[B]ehold, by and by ye shall pluck the fruit thereof, which is most precious, which is sweet above all that is sweet, and which is white above all that is white, yea, and pure above all that is pure; and ye shall feast upon this fruit even until ye are filled, that ye hunger not, neither shall ye thirst” (Alma 32:42).

Is it any wonder that the Lord has commanded us to share the Book of Mormon with our friends and colleagues so that they, too, can learn divine truth through spiritual confirmation (see Moro. 10:4)? It is our greatest missionary tool. As Nephi confirmed, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon is concrete, indisputable evidence that the Lord will fulfill His solemn promise to bring the gospel to His children: “And it shall come to pass that my people, which are of the house of Israel, shall be gathered home unto the lands of their possessions; and my word also shall be gathered in one. And I will show unto them that fight against my word and against my people, who are of the house of Israel, that I am God, and that I covenanted with Abraham that I would remember his seed forever” (2 Ne. 29:14).

—Richard J. Allen

SUMMARY

The vision of the worth of souls and the covenant commitment to do missionary work go hand in hand. As members of the Lord’s true Church, we need to set goals and make plans to do our member missionary work. Let us set some dates for being member-missionaries now, and plan to serve a full-time mission for the Lord. We have been repeatedly counseled by the Brethren about serving missions as young adults and as seniors. Remember that as we serve the Lord, He will help us and we will have the joy of helping build up the kingdom of God here upon the earth.

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MORALITY

“The Lord’s missionaries are stalwart examples of morality in a modern-day culture that is too often slack in goodness and righteousness. The Lord’s missionaries teach the principles of righteousness and encourage their listeners to follow the gospel pattern that leads to perfection through faithful endurance and the grace of the Lord. How can we best share the vision of the glorious destiny of those who hold fast to moral principles and move forward with honor and valor toward their heavenly home?”

Morality is the key to a righteous society and a sustained civilization. History bears the sad stories of empires, kingdoms, and civilizations being destroyed through immorality and wickedness. The fundamental principles of morality do not change, but how such principles are applied by individuals and cultures can, unfortunately, evolve and degrade over time through the misguided decisions of individuals and society as a collective body.

As a society, we must change for the better—one person at a time, standing for and defending virtue. William Penn wrote: “Right is right, even if everyone is against it; and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it.” Stephen L Richards counseled: “There is no spiritual progress or excellence without moral purity.” Our children, and in turn, society, will suffer if we are permissive and apathetic regarding moral values and conduct. Our standard is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Let us uphold it and teach it to our children with devotion and love.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

2 Corinthians 7:1. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

The standard of the gospel of Jesus Christ is chastity, decency, goodness, honesty, and in all things seeking the righteousness of a Christlike life. We must not be carnally minded, for that brings spiritual death (Rom. 8:6). A moral and chaste person is completely true to all gospel standards.

Doctrine and Covenants 3:4. For although a man may have many revelations, and have power to do many mighty works, yet if he boasts in his own strength, and sets at naught the counsels of God, and follows after the dictates of his own will and carnal desires, he must fall and incur the vengeance of a just God upon him.

The price of immorality is captivity by sin and by the devil. We must realize that all immoral behavior has consequences. We will be held accountable for every immoral and unjust act we commit, just as we will receive a spiritual benefit from upholding the standards of the gospel with resolute obedience and righteousness.

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Ezra Taft Benson:

The plaguing sin of this generation is sexual immorality. This, the Prophet Joseph said, would be the source of more temptations, more buffetings, and more difficulties for the elders of Israel than any other. (See Journal of Discourses, 8:55.)

President Joseph F. Smith said that sexual impurity would be one of the three dangers that would threaten the Church within—and so it does (see Gospel Doctrine, pp. 312–13). It permeates our society. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 277)

Gordon B. Hinckley:

The Lord has made it clear, and the experience of centuries has confirmed it, that happiness lies not in immorality, but rather in abstinence. The voice of the Church to which you belong is a voice pleading for virtue. It is a voice pleading for strength to abstain from that which is evil. It is a voice declaring that sexual transgression is sin. It is contrary to the will of the Lord. It is contrary to the teachings of the Church. It is contrary to the happiness and well-being of those who indulge in it. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 48)

Spencer W. Kimball:

That the Church’s stand on morality may be understood, we declare firmly and unalterably, it is not an outworn garment, faded, old-fashioned, and threadbare. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and his covenants and doctrines are immutable; and when the sun grows cold and the stars no longer shine, the law of chastity will still be basic in God’s world and in the Lord’s church. Old values are upheld by the Church not because they are old, but rather because through the ages they have proved right. It will always be the rule. . . . The world may countenance premarital sex experiences, but the Lord and his church condemn in no uncertain terms any and every sex relationship outside of marriage. (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982], 265)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

The following ideas can help each of us to be a moral person and contribute to the building up of a moral society:

1. Morality begins within.

●    Understand the process of moral development—Morality begins with our thoughts, takes root in our character, flows outwardly through our deeds, and crystallizes in our patterns of life. How carefully, therefore, should we guard our very thoughts, for they are the crucible of our destiny.

●    Base your life on gospel principles—There is much talk today of “relative values”—suggesting that there is no absolute compass of decency. But there are indeed moral values that do not change, and we find these principles in the gospel.

●    Follow your conscience—Recognize your internal moral standard of attitudes and behavior: your conscience. Don’t compromise.

2. Morality pays high dividends.

●    Enjoy the fruits of proper conduct—Living a virtuous and moral life has innate rewards: good health, a clear conscience, providing a good example to your children, and enjoying lasting feelings of well-being and vitality.

●    Attract lasting friendships—Our language is a mirror to our inner values. Sarcasm, snide remarks about others, ethnic slurs, off-color stories—all these are clear symptoms of a value-system in need of reexamination. Such behavior repels all principled minds. On the other hand, honesty and virtue in discourse and social interaction attract lasting friendships and earn the respect of all principled minds.

●    Sow the seeds of harmony and peace—Moral behavior fosters harmony and unity. Immorality, selfishness, greed, and envy foster divisiveness, acrimony, anger, and distrust.

3. You can be a moral leader.

●    Respect every person—Never take advantage of another. Morality is anchored in honoring the dignity of every soul, regardless of circumstances. Morality sees potential more than condition.

●    Illuminate better pathways—The leader in moral decency does not simply draw a line in the sand, but provides better options and alternatives. “Let’s do this instead” is a powerful antidote to the plethora of debasing options being touted as “cool” in today’s relativistic society.

●    Uphold the freedom to choose—A leader always honors one’s freedom to choose. Coercion and preemptory heavy-handedness are themselves immoral. Remember, with morality, everyone has God-given rights that no one else has the right to take away.

●    Leadership starts at home—Morality is best taught in the home. How great is the responsibility placed on parents and older children to model behavior that teaches growing children correct choices based on true principles. Every father and every mother need to place the well-being of the family and the children uppermost.

4. Morality is a spiritual enterprise.

●    Know yourself—The essence of morality is the wondrous insight that you are a child of God. Knowing that you bear the image of the Creator should lift your view to a higher plane, elevate your vision to higher possibilities, and instill within you the desire—the responsibility—to act according to the highest standards of decency and honor.

●    Know God—Study the principles of morality in the scriptures. Pray for moral courage and strength.

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

The heartbreaking story of an unwed, pregnant girl demonstrates the devastating consequences of sexual immorality.

“If Only I Had Known Five Minutes Before”

We will never forget that sweet young girl of sixteen who came to live with us one summer for the remaining months of her unwed pregnancy. My husband is an attorney and was handling the adoption of her baby. She hadn’t wanted to marry the boy who was the father of her unborn child. She had been beguiled and had partaken of the bitter fruit.

In September she gave birth to a beautiful little boy, and the day she was to leave the hospital, Dean and I had to go to Salt Lake City. We stopped at the hospital long enough to meet the couple who were adopting the baby. Under hospital rules, this young mother, sixteen years old, had to take her beautiful nine-pound boy from the arms of the nurse and hand him over to my husband, who then stepped outside the room and gave the baby to the adopting parents. It tore me apart to watch her and to see that young couple leave with her baby.

She said to me, “Sister Payne, he lied to me when he said nobody would get hurt, and that because we loved each other, anything we did was alright. He didn’t really love me. That is why I didn’t marry him, because he wasn’t worthy to be the father of my little boy. It’s all a great big lie, and I don’t want to live a lie!

“Oh, if only I had known five minutes before I was immoral how I would feel five minutes after I gave my baby away!”

For this girl not to have thought ahead about the consequences of her actions and not to have realized that lust is the mere image of love is indeed heartbreaking. It is so important to keep in tune, keep in touch, to receive the Spirit each and every day. We never know what is going to happen; and if we make the commitment in our private rooms, by the side of our beds, to our Father in heaven, of what we want to be in life—what we will do and what we won’t do—and then ask for his help in keeping our commitments, he will help us in public and private. (Jaynann Payne in Remarkable Stories from the Lives of Latter-day Saint Women, comp. Leon R. Hartshorn [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1973], 2:203)

SUMMARY

The blessings of morality are long lasting. Immorality may give “moments of pleasure” that are fleeting—but enduring joy and happiness cannot be drawn from this well. “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Matthew 16:26). Integrity is required to maintain a state of morality—individually and collectively. The gospel standard is our moral law. There are universal moral laws that all should conform to. In society as a whole, one must be courageous in fighting for that which is morally right. When the majority have no concern for morality, all suffer. Standards are not upheld. Wickedness is the result—all because of the lack of society’s integrity in upholding high moral standards. “We whittle away our heritage unless we conform to the moral laws,” is how one anonymous source put it, and correctly so. By embracing and sustaining a moral lifestyle, you can make a difference—for yourself, your family, your community, and even the world.

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MORTALITY

“Missionaries teach the principle explained so clearly by Alma, that this life is “a probationary state; a time to prepare to meet God; a time to prepare for that endless state which has been spoken of by us, which is after the resurrection of the dead” (Alma 12:24). Proving ourselves to be faithful and obedient to the Lord’s commandments during our mortal journey brings comfort and peace; fulfilling our mortal mission in righteousness opens the gateway to ultimate salvation and exaltation. How can we testify to others by the Spirit that our mortality and earthly lives will be transformed into immortality and eternal lives through the mercy and grace of the Lord?”

The work of Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ is to bring to pass our immortality and eternal life (Moses 1:39). There are many phases in our existence, but we will focus here in on the phase of mortality and all of its trials and joys. To make life beautiful, enjoyable, and fulfilling we must remember to build a value system around the gospel of Jesus Christ, for this life is the time to prepare to meet God (see Alma 34:32). Keeping the commandments leads to righteousness, and in righteousness we find happiness as our reward for a good life. 

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

Matthew 16:25–26. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

The Lord commands us to spend our lives are in His service and the service of our fellowmen in building up the kingdom of God (see JST Matt. 6:38). Our souls are precious (see D&C 18:10), and as such we should not jeopardize them for things of the world or momentary pleasures. The price our Savior paid for us was terribly great, and His death should not be in vain in regard to our personal lives. We should claim the blessing of eternal life through repentance. If we do not, we must suffer as Christ did (see D&C 19:15–19).

Romans 6:12. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.

According to the scriptures, life is a test (see Abr. 3:25). We must endure temptation and opposition in all things as part of the test of life. We should not succumb to the flesh, but rather let our spirit dictate to our body. The questions to ask ourselves are: Do we yield our hearts to the enticings of the Holy Spirit (see Mosiah 3:19)? Do we love God totally and completely? If we don’t, we will become carnal, sensual, and devilish (see Moses 5:13).

Alma 12:24. And we see that death comes upon mankind, yea, the death which has been spoken of by Amulek, which is the temporal death; nevertheless there was a space granted unto man in which he might repent; therefore this life became a probationary state; a time to prepare to meet God; a time to prepare for that endless state which has been spoken of by us, which is after the resurrection of the dead.

Life on earth is a temporary proving ground for our eternal destiny. It is a trial period for us to prove our worthiness to come back into the presence of God. We should not procrastinate the day of our repentance, lest we lose the blessings of eternal life (see Alma 34:33–35).

Doctrine and Covenants 84:44. For you shall live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God.

We should live life according to the word of God, our compass for life (see Alma 37:37–47). Life can be wonderful as we hold to the iron rod and stay on the straight and narrow path to partake of the precious fruit. The love of God will bring us back to His presence as we partake of the Atonement of Christ.

Moses 3:7. And I, the Lord God, formed man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul, the first flesh upon the earth, the first man also; nevertheless, all things were before created; but spiritually were they created and made according to my word.

Heavenly Father is the Father of our spirits. In mortality we begin life as a living soul (both spirit and body). We are eternal beings, divine children of God, having an earthly experience we call mortality. Just as He gave Adam life, so does the Lord give us the breath of life (see Mosiah 2:21).

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Ezra Taft Benson:

Life has a fourfold purpose. First of all, we come to this mortal life to receive a physical, mortal body. Without a physical body man is limited in his progression and only with a spirit and a body united together permanently can man receive a fulness of joy; so we are living today part of eternity. We accepted that plan in the spirit world before we came here, and we rejoiced at the opportunity of coming here.

Second, we came here to gain experience—experience with a physical, mortal world.

The third purpose of life is to give us an opportunity to prove ourselves (Abraham 3:25). To prove that even in the presence of evil and sin we can live a good life. To prove that in spite of temptation that we have the strength and the character to adhere to the principles of the gospel.

And fourth, this life is intended to provide an opportunity to help our Father in Heaven with His great plan, and we do that through honorable parenthood. We cooperate with our Heavenly Father in helping to prepare tabernacles to house spirits of His other children. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 27)

Marvin J. Ashton:

In whatever circumstance we may find ourselves, whether in the midst of tragedy, the pain of misconduct, or merely the daily struggle to live the life of a faithful Latter-day Saint, we must remember “the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” (Be of Good Cheer [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1987], 21)

Gordon B. Hinckley:

Life is a mission, not just the sputtering of a candle between a chance lighting and a gust of wind that blows it out forever. . . .

While here, we have learning to gain, work to do, service to give. We are here with a marvelous inheritance, a divine endowment. How different this world would be if every person realized that all of his actions have eternal consequences. How much more satisfying our years may be if in our accumulation of knowledge, in our relationships with others, in our business affairs, in our courtship and marriage, and in our family rearing, we recognize that we form each day the stuff of which eternity is made. . . . Life is forever. Live each day as if you were going to live eternally, for you surely shall. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 174)

Thomas S. Monson:

We are the sons and daughters of Almighty God. We have a destiny to fulfill, a life to live, a contribution to make, a goal to achieve. The future of our country in these rapidly changing times awaits our mark of influence. The growth of the kingdom of God upon the earth will, in part, be aided by our devotion. (Be Your Best Self [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1979], 119)

Neal A. Maxwell:

Determining whether we will live myopically and selfishly or live now for eternity is a fundamental decision that colors every day of daily life. To live a life of “thanksgiving daily” (Alma 34:38) while in the midst of adversity and its tutorials is impossible without a degree of meekness. (Meek and Lowly [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1987], 4)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here are four ideas to remember for getting the most out of life:

1. Life is what you choose to make it.

●    Choose wisely—Remember that you have the power to choose your responses to life and all your governing attitudes (see 2 Ne. 2:27). Have an attitude of hope—sooner or later things can and will be better.

●    Be positive—Try not to be negative. A negative outlook sometimes becomes self-fulfilling.

●    Uphold your standards—Live up to your values and principles. If you don’t, you will suffer from guilt, and your credibility in the eyes of your children and your friends could be lost.

●    Think long term—Cultivate a vision for life, set some goals and make some plans. Seek lasting joy rather than short-term pleasures. When they become an end in themselves, short-term pleasures can fill life with emptiness and an insatiable hunger for something higher.

2. Life is this very moment.

●    Don’t wait to enjoy life—Enjoy the journey today.

●    Life is now—Realize that life is not “out there.” It is “in here,” or inside yourself—how you respond to the moment-by-moment feelings, events, and opportunities that make up your world. You can think of each moment as a special act of living or as a burden; it’s all in how you respond.

●    Life is a miracle—Experience the vitality of life, a feeling of “aliveness” that has its own miraculous, self-sustaining energy. Even at times of illness and malaise, the life-adoring individual holds onto each moment of living as one more opportunity to watch the sunset, marvel at nature’s handiwork, or hold the hand of a loved one.

●    Keep it simple—Don’t over-program or over-commit yourself. Too many “things” make life hectic and sometimes unbearable.

●    Stay healthy—Take care of yourself: eat well, get adequate rest, and exercise regularly. To some extent, health is your choice.

3. Life is enriched through service to others.

●    Life is togetherness—Enjoy togetherness. Everyone can have togetherness, even the person whom circumstances have deprived of immediate family and relatives. That person can still help and serve others out of a deep commitment to humanity, out of a deep sense of obligation to make this a better world.

●    Look beyond yourself—Always take time to look outside yourself. Your worst days will be when you are overly concerned with your own well-being. Selfishness destroys the beauties in life.

●    Seek to build up the kingdom of God—Be an instrument in the hand of the Lord to help people come unto Christ (JST Matt. 6:38; Alma 29:9–10).

●    Seek to serve others—Serve others, and your joy will be exquisite (see Alma 36:24).

4. Life is an exhilarating climb upward, one step at a time.

●    Rise to your potential—Work toward your highest prospects and possibilities. Life is not an opportunity to rise on the wings of self-transcendence and self-mastery to the highest level of which one is capable.

●    Prepare well—Organize yourself for life’s journey. Part of the joy in life is getting ready to climb higher (see D&C 88:119).

●    Communicate with care—Be true to your promises, and you will avoid hurting others.

●    Do it now—Don’t procrastinate! Procrastination causes you to waste more energy being frustrated than you would spend just getting the job done in the first place. It also makes you feel discouraged.

●    Savor the good consequences—Reward yourself for goals achieved and things well done.

●    Make life a spiritual experience—Remember that life on earth is a training ground for a better life to come. Nothing quells the narrow appetites of a mortal nature more than the desire, hope, and faith to qualify for an eternal life in which the cares of this world are replaced with the glories of eternal lives in the celestial kingdom (see 2 Ne. 9:39).

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIME

In the following story by Milton R. Hunter, we about the length of time we exist in the mortal sphere compared to our eternal existence.

The Dot Is Very, Very Small

The Prophet Joseph Smith termed it this way, that the purpose of our existence is that we might have happiness. We want to be happy today, tomorrow, next week, next year, ten years from now, a hundred years from now, a thousand years from now, a million years from now.

I was in a stake conference one time, and I made a remark similar to the statement I just made. There were several little boys sitting on the front row. One little chap spoke aloud what he was thinking. He said, “Oh, we won’t live that long!”

This gave me a fine opportunity to make an explanation. I said, “Young man, we will live that long. We live forever and ever.”

Permit me to give you a little illustration. If we take a pencil and put a dot on the wall over there, we could call that dot mortality. Then if we take that pencil and run a line clear around this big fieldhouse in which we are meeting, we could call that line the eternal existence or life we shall live. Notice that the dot is very, very small in comparison to the line; and yet it is most important, extremely important, because the joy that we have throughout the eternities or the sorrow that we have throughout the eternities is determined by the choices we make during our mortal lives. Also, the status of our life or existence, the future world in which we live, will be determined by what happens in this little dot, or, in other words, in this short span of life that we live here in mortality. (Milton R. Hunter in Outstanding Stories by General Authorities, comp. Leon R. Hartshorn [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1974], 3:171–72)

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This counsel from Thorpe B. Isaacson reminds us of the precious nature of this mortal life and that the line between life and death is exceedingly thin.

Not Yet, Dear Lord, Not Yet

Today, if I may, I would like to take just one sentence from President McKay’s beautiful dedicatory prayer offered at the London Temple, and may I quote from that one sentence. Speaking to the Lord, he said: “May we express overwhelming gratitude just to be alive.”

I have a personal reason this morning for repeating this sentence from President McKay’s dedicatory prayer, because today I am truly grateful just to be alive. A few months ago I became critically ill, and I learned then, as I have never learned before, that the line between life and mortality and death and immortality is very thin indeed. It only takes a few seconds—yes, a very few seconds—to change from life and mortality to death and immortality, and I saw how close one can get to the pale of death. I thought I was passing from this life to the other, and I am truly grateful to the Lord that he permitted me to live. I fully realized then that I was not prepared or ready for that passing, and it brought to my mind a few words that I have read in a poem that goes something like this:

“There is no time that we could set for parting. Ever our prayer would be [as mine was], Not yet, dear Lord, not yet, just another day.”

I realized then more than ever before how dependent we are upon God, our Eternal Father, even for the preservation of our lives. When one faces such a change, and we are all going to face it, when we come close to it, many things come to our minds. I wonder if you are ready for that change. I wonder if you are prepared to change from life to death. I believe that we can become prepared and ready, and I concluded then that if the Lord would permit me to live longer, I intended to live better so that I could die better. (Thorpe B. Isaacson in Outstanding Stories by General Authorities, comp. Leon R. Hartshorn [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1974] 3:194)

SUMMARY

Life is a gift from God, and our righteous lives can be our gift to God. You are in charge of your life, and you can choose to be “even as [He is]” (see 3 Ne. 27:27). Be understanding and kind, treating people with consideration. You can make a difference in the life of every person you meet, as well as your own life. As you do this, you will feel fulfilled and life will be sweet. Make a commitment to live life to the fullest and enjoy your time on earth.

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MOTHERHOOD

“The missionaries of the Lord can bear witness to mothers that they can look forward through obedience and honor to the “crowns of eternal lives in the eternal worlds” (D&C 132:55). The Lord loves mothers with an infinite love. What missionaries can bring into the homes and lives of their willing listeners is a confirmation of the nobility of motherhood in the gospel plan of salvation and exaltation. How can we set a good example of respect for motherhood for all those who are seeking the saving truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ?”

Motherhood is the most dynamic and powerful role on the earth. Mothers give life, the most precious gift of all, to each child. Mothers nurture the family, give love, and serve. They constantly do things for their children that their children can’t do for themselves—they love them, teach them, serve them, and perform a myriad of other things only mothers can do. Society undeniably rests on the contributions and sacrifices of mothers. Elder ElRay L. Christiansen stated: “So far, no worthy substitute has been found for good mothers. Without them, civilization is doomed to decay.” According to a Jewish proverb: “God could not be everywhere; therefore, he made mothers.” Abraham Lincoln articulated the sentiments of virtually all mankind when he said, “All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”

May we thank Heavenly Father always for our mothers and pay homage to them. May we respect them, honor them, and praise them for their sacrifices on our behalf. May we strive to lift them up and appreciate them for who they are: an embodiment of the godly principles of life, love, and leadership.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

Genesis 3:16. Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.

Women experience great hardship and difficulty in pregnancy and childbirth. Just as the Savior gave birth to our immortality in a magnificent vicarious act, so likewise do mothers bring forth mortality in a magnificent act of service. Christ sorrowed for our sins in His anguish and suffering, and mothers sorrow on behalf of their children. Mothers should have a desire to be one with their husbands, as the Savior commands His Church to be. In all families, groups, and organizations, there is one who presides. In the case of eternal matters, God the Father Elohim presides over our Savior and over all of mankind. In mortal families, the father holds that responsibility. In the Godhead, there is unity; likewise, in a family the parents should be united in purpose, cause, and action, being equally yoked together in bringing forth a righteous family.

Alma 57:21. Yea, and they did obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them; and I did remember the words which they said unto me that their mothers had taught them.

Just as the mothers of the sons of Helaman taught their sons, so likewise do all mothers, who are the great nurturers, teach and bless their children. The greatest service one can give to another is to teach and nourish them with the word of God. Remember, the word of God has the power to lead people to do what is right (see Alma 31:5).

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Spencer W. Kimball:

Relief Society leaders and teachers should ask, how can we help the wife and mother understand the dignity and worth of her role in the divine process of motherhood? How can we help her make her home a place of love and learning, a place of refuge and refinement? How can we strengthen her to assume an added family leadership role when her husband is away from the home, or in those homes without a father? (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982], 435)

Gordon B. Hinckley:

The true strength that is America’s, the true strength of any nation, lies in those qualities of character that have been acquired for the most part by children taught in the quiet, simple, everyday manner of mothers. What Jean Paul Richter once declared of fathers is even more true of mothers—and I paraphrase it just a little to make the point—“What a mother says to her children is not heard by the world, but it will be heard by posterity.” . . .

It is my opinion that the very situation of an ever-increasing number of mothers out of the home and in the workplace is a root cause of many of the problems of delinquency, drugs, and gangs, both male and female. Why then do women leave families to work? A recently published newspaper article pointed out some of the problems family heads face which dictate this move. . . . Not only are we exacting a terrible slice of income for taxes and family-required goods and services, but concomitantly we are exacting a terrible price in the weakening of the family which occurs when a mother absents herself from the home each working day while latchkey children wait for her return. When she does return, too often she is tired and under such stress and frustration that in all too many cases she cannot give to her children the attention and the affection which they so much crave and need. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 386, 389)

David O. McKay:

Motherhood is the greatest potential influence either for good or ill in human life. The mother’s image is the first that stamps itself on the unwritten page of the young child’s mind. It is her caress that first awakens a sense of security; her kiss, the first realization of affection; her sympathy and tenderness, the first assurance that there is love in the world. True, there comes a time when Father takes his place as exemplar and hero of the growing boy; and in the latter’s budding ambition to develop manly traits, he outwardly seems to turn from the more gentle and tender virtues engendered by his mother. Yet that ever-directing and restraining influence implanted during the first years of his childhood linger with him and permeate his thoughts and memory as distinctively as perfume clings to each particular flower. (Gospel Ideals: Selections from the Discourses of David O. McKay [Salt Lake City: Improvement Era, 1953], 452)

Spencer W. Kimball

Motherhood is a holy calling, a sacred dedication for carrying out the Lord’s work, a consecration and devotion to the rearing and fostering, the nurturing of body, mind, and spirit of those who kept their first estate and who came to this earth for their second estate to learn and be tested and to work toward godhood.

Mothers have a sacred role. They are partners with God, as well as with their own husbands, first in giving birth to the Lord’s spirit children, and then in rearing those children so they will serve the Lord and keep his commandments. Could there be a more sacred trust than to be a trustee for honorable, well-born, well-developed children? (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982], 326)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here is a brief list of the acts and attributes of mothers—and the list could go on forever:

●    Giving life—Mothers give life. They instantly love their children, for they have already served and sacrificed by giving birth.

●    Caring—Mothers tenderly care for their children and tend to all their physical and emotional needs.

●    Leading—Mothers patiently lead their children through their early years.

●    Teaching—Mothers begin the teaching process—from language to proper behavior—and carry it on with love and patience.

●    Listening—Mothers listen with focus, without distraction, without impatience, without crossness or unkindness.

●    Understanding—Mothers seek to understand their children’s needs and concerns.

●    Wisdom—Mothers separate behavior from the individual. They always respect the individual child, even if the child’s behavior needs to be channeled into more appropriate patterns.

●    Serving—Mothers are always there in times of routine as well as in moments of crisis. Someone said, “Every mother is a working woman.”

●    Devotion—Mothers know that their role is non-transferable.

●    Praising—Mothers honestly and generously praise their children regularly.

●    Honoring—Mothers never abuse or make light of their children in any way.

●    Fostering enjoyment—Mothers try to make family time fun and enjoyable, even if it is a little hectic.

●    Humility—Mothers seek forgiveness of their children when the mothers are not at their best.

●    Honesty—Mothers always keep their word. They are trustworthy, just as they are trusting.

●    Giving—Mothers always give their love and their time. Their children always know that they are loved and important to their mothers.

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

An anonymous parable reminds us of the great sacrifices made by mothers, and of the crown they receive for faithful motherhood.

The Crown from Heaven—A Parable

At the door of the Angel of Life there sounded a knocking, at first very faint, then growing louder and more insistent. Opening the door, the angel saw on the threshold a woman pale with pain, but with a look of expectant joy in her eyes.

“I am here,” she said triumphantly. “I have come for my child. Give it to me quickly for it is a long journey and a hard one, and my strength may be exhausted before I return.”

“Wait,” said the angel slowly. “Your child is here—a beautiful boy. But first you must pay for him.”

“Pay you?” faltered the woman. “But I have very little money and we shall need that for him.”

“I have no use for money,” answered the angel. “But I must have a little of your health, a great deal of your time, some of your peace of mind, and at least half of your heart.”

Without hesitating the woman handed him the things for which he asked, and the angel turned away and returned with the child. The woman clasped him eagerly in her weak arms, then bravely set out for the land from which she came. As she turned to go, the angel placed on her head a crown. She turned in surprise.

“This is my gift to you,” said the Angel of Life. “It is the crown of motherhood, which will recompense you for the things you have given up.”

—Anonymous

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In an inspirational account, a blind woman tells of her mother’s devotion to and sacrifice for her children, and of the lasting effects in her own life.

My Guiding Light

My mother was so quiet and unassuming that many of her closest neighbors never really learned to know her; yet she was truly a friend to the friendless and a comfort to the lonely-hearted.

My early childhood would have been desolate indeed without her love and devotion. How clearly I remember a conversation that went something like this: “Mamma, will you read to me now? Just a few pages, Mamma.”

I would carry a book into the kitchen where my mother was ironing or to the dining room where she sat at her sewing machine. Sometimes I followed her to the back porch where she scrubbed clothes on a washboard. Her explanations that she must first finish her work were always gentle and patient. Never did she raise her voice in anger or impatience. More often than not, she would leave her work only to finish it later in the evening when I was tucked safely into bed. Due to her kindness and tact, I was eight years old before I realized that I was blind.

When a teacher was found to teach me Braille, Mother learned Braille with me. Since we could see the teacher only once a week, Mother felt that my progress would be too slow with so little help, so my education became another of her many tasks. When I did enter a day school for the blind, I was able to go into the fifth grade with the children in my own age group. Had she merely been the traditional busy housewife, this would have been noteworthy enough, but since she was the sole provider for four children, it was remarkable. By taking in washing and sewing, working in the homes of neighbors, and remaking second-hand clothing that friends and relatives contributed, we were able to manage.

My mother was often asked why she did not send me away to school. In those days, practically all blind children attended special state institutions. To such questions Mother would say, “I want Lucile to have the same love and care that my other children have. . . .” . . .

I could never have finished high school and college without Mother’s help. In the late twenties and early thirties, there were very few textbooks to be had in Braille. Mother did most of my reading. She also spent long hours dictating French to me, and I transcribed page after page of it into Braille. . . .

Because of her, I have never known a world of darkness. Because of her, I have been able to live a busy and happy life. With her as my inspiration, I shall continue to do so. As she always has been, she always will be my guiding light. (Lucile Tournear in Remarkable Stories from the Lives of Latter-day Saint Women, comp. Leon R. Hartshorn, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1973], 2:233–35)

SUMMARY

The list of what mothers accomplish could go on forever, but the point seems clear: a mother’s influence is critical to the lives of her children. We are all indebted to our mothers for life itself and for their love and kindness expressed through service. It is interesting to see the gratitude of a young mother for her own mother after she has given birth to a child. Undoubtedly, we all owe to our angel mothers a righteous life of service and charity, so that their lives will have not been in vain. Mothers today need to remember that there is no success outside the home that can equate to the success of raising a child with love and devotion. Mothers are truly the queens of the earth, and their realm is the heavenly commission to bring up their children in truth and see to their nurture and well-being. Motherhood is the essence of life. May life be sweet for all families as mothers and fathers and children work together in harmony and love.

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OBEDIENCE

“The greatest example of obedience in all the eternities is Jesus Christ. During His earthly ministry He said, “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me” (John 6:38). The Lord’s missionaries—and we are all His missionaries—are to follow in the footsteps of the Savior by obeying Him and doing His will, which is that we are to share the gospel with everyone, that all might have the opportunity to enter His fold and reap the harvest of eternal joy and exaltation. How can we teach this principle effectively by example and our sincere witness of the truth?”

According to the Lord, learning to obey is the principal test of life (see Abr. 3:25). Through obedience, we become the sons and daughters of God. In this regard, James E. Faust counseled: “The price of discipleship is obedience.” Obedience, in fact, is the first law of heaven and all blessings are predicated on this law (see D&C 130:20–21). One of the great blessings of keeping the commandments is that the Spirit attends us when we do so (see D&C 20:77, 79). On the other hand, when we disobey, we lose the blessing of the Spirit in our lives (see Morm. 1:13–14). When we gain mastery over our conduct through obedience to the Lord, our spiritual nature desires that which is good and we comport ourselves in a Christlike manner. Thus St. Augustine taught: “Obedience is in a way the mother of all virtues.”

The scriptures provide abundant evidence of the power that comes through obedience. The sons of Helaman, for example, were full of faith and exactly obedient, and this acted as a protection and a shield to them. Sometimes, however, we are not at our best—we fall short of exact, immediate, and courageous obedience. The children of Adam and Eve were taught the plan of redemption, and then Satan came among them, commanding them “to believe it not,” and some of them “believed it not, and they loved Satan more than God.” The result was that they became carnal, sensual, and devilish (see Moses 5:11–13). They were willfully disobedient by nature and suffered the consequences. They did not obey God completely when they ceased to love Him completely (see John 14:15).We all claim to love God—and we do love Him. The question is: Do we love Him deeply enough? We cannot love God and mammon and be obedient to the laws of God. The blessing of obedience is righteousness, which leads us to a state of happiness, the ultimate desire of our heart.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

1 Samuel 15:22. And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

By sacrificing, we please the Lord and learn that obedience is the supreme law. We do not pick and choose which commandments to keep or select those sacrifices that we want to make. To demonstrate our obedience, we must strive with all our might to keep all of the commandments and to sacrifice all things the Lord commands us.

John 7:17. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.

It is through obedience that we learn the truth of the doctrines of Christ and receive the blessings associated with each doctrine.

1 Nephi 22:31. Wherefore, if ye shall be obedient to the commandments, and endure to the end, ye shall be saved at the last day.

The simple truth of life is that if we lovingly obey the commandments of God and endure to the end, we will be exalted.

Doctrine and Covenants 130:19–21. And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come. There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated—And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.

The law of the harvest is simple: We are blessed by practicing true principles and obeying the commandments of God.

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Brigham Young:

Every son and daughter of God is expected to obey with a willing heart every word which the Lord has spoken, and which he will in the future speak to us. It is expected that we hearken to the revelations of his will, and adhere to them, cleave to them with all our might; for this is salvation, and any thing short of this clips the salvation and the glory of the Saints. 2:2. (Discourses of Brigham Young, selected and arranged by John A. Widtsoe [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1954], 220)

Howard W. Hunter:

Obedience must always precede knowledge. You will remember when Adam was driven from the Garden of Eden he offered sacrifices. “An angel of the Lord appeared unto Adam, saying: Why dost thou offer sacrifices unto the Lord? And Adam said unto him: I know not, save the Lord commanded me.” (Moses 5:6.) Then the angel explained to him the meaning of sacrifices. Obedience must always precede knowledge. If we are obedient to our assigned responsibility, knowledge will follow. We are prone to discount things we cannot understand. (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1997], 22)

Spencer W. Kimball:

The way to perfection is through obedience. Therefore, to each person is given a pattern—obedience through suffering, and perfection through obedience. Let each person learn obedience of faith in all things and thus exemplify the attributes of the Master. (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982], 168)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here are three strategies that can motivate all of us to be more obedient:

1. Realize that obedience is a reflection of your faith and love.

●    A choice—With increased faith and abundant love in God, you will choose to obey Him. If you align yourself with lasting values and principles, little, everyday rules have a way of taking care of themselves.

●    A journey—Obedience should be an exciting journey, not a restricting requirement of behavior.

●    A matter of faith—When you understand a doctrine or principle through your faith, you will be eager to obey.

2. Understand the essence of the commandments, laws, and rules.

●    Freedom—Look at obedience as a doorway to more freedom, rather than a straitjacket on your behavior. Laws and rules are made to enhance freedom to the highest degree for the greatest number of people. Recognize that obeying laws must be seen as a way to freedom rather than as a restriction.

●    Consequences—All laws have consequences. For example, obedience to the laws of health and well-being is simply in your best interest. Learn the benefits of obedience to the law. The natural upholding of laws brings the blessings of safety, peace, and security to your family and society.

●    Knowledge—Know the doctrines and principles of the gospel. Know the laws and rules of the government. Protect yourself from the effects of your own ignorance as well as from the designs of those who would exercise unrighteous power by perverting the laws and rules to their own advantage.

3. Take the initiative to foster obedience in family, community, and society.

●    Example—Teach obedience to others through example and love rather than through the exercise of power and control. Help others understand and appreciate the reasons for laws. This will help them change their behaviors and attitudes.

●   Leadership—A good leader must also understand how to be a good follower, since all must answer to someone above them in the chain of leadership. Therefore, regard obedience to proper and meaningful assignments as the energy that keeps the team functioning well.

●    Quest—Make obedience a quest in your life, both for yourself and for your family. Obedience raises self-confidence and increases self-discipline, which has its own rewards.

●    Love—Overcome fear through your love of God and your desire to obey His commandments. Aristotle taught: “Wicked men obey for fear, but the good for love.”

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

The following personal account shows how obedience to parents in childhood can lead to blessings later in life.

Cooked Spinach, Cabbage, and Cauliflower

We lived on a farm during World War II. While we had plenty of food, we were still had to go to the store for additional items. During the war, everyone had a little ration book. The ration book allowed each family to purchase so much food for each member of the family. We were no different. I can still remember going to the store and helping my mother. We could buy only the amount of food we had coupons for, because there was only so much food for every family. So food was important. That’s where the story begins.

You see, my father was a big man—six foot three and 250 pounds—and when he spoke, we obeyed. When he said eat, we ate. I remember my parents liked to eat cooked cauliflower, cooked spinach, and cooked cabbage—and I couldn’t stand any of them. I learned something as an eight-year-old boy. I could chew these offensive items while holding my breath and taking a big drink of milk—and I wouldn’t even taste them. I was able to cope with all this horrible food my parents were eating. My angel mother always gave me just a small portion knowing of my great dislike. Yet we had to eat what was rationed to us, and we had to obey.

Years went by and I was married. My wife asked me if I would go to the store and buy the groceries. She gave me the list, and I was off to the store. On the list was “cooking vegetables.” I could choose anything I wanted—corn, peas, artichokes, squash. Consider this—I was the big man in the market: I could buy what I wanted. I was alone with the list and the money. As I walked down through the produce section, I noticed a beautiful head of cabbage, which I took, a beautiful bag of spinach, and a large, white head of cauliflower. I stopped in amazement. I couldn’t believe it. I had bought the very food I thought I hated. I learned to love these foods through obedience. Even to this day, I think of spinach steamed and hot with a little butter, a twist of lemon, and sprinkles of pepper—and I feel like Pavlov’s dogs. I love cooked spinach, cabbage, and cauliflower, and I learned to love them as a child through obedience. I would hate to think of never being able to enjoy these foods. Certainly, obedience to any rule or law always has a blessing.

—Ed J. Pinegar

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 The following story, related by Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, illustrates how exact obedience is required for the desired results.

Live in Obedience

Let me share an experience from my own youth, an experience that taught me the importance of obedience in doing even small things well. I loved to play football in high school and at the university. I wanted to be a good athlete. I especially remember one game. Our university team faced the University of Colorado in a contest for the conference championship. We were well coached and really well prepared.

The star of the Colorado team was Byron “Whizzer” White, an all-American who was a tremendous athlete. He was a fast, versatile, and powerful quarterback. His athletic prowess was legendary. . . .

Our wise coach was Ike Armstrong. His warnings before the game included two simple instructions: one, do not kick off or punt the ball to Whizzer White, and two, never let him get past the line of scrimmage.

We followed his instructions and held Colorado scoreless throughout the first half. Early in the second half, however, Whizzer White kicked a field goal. We answered with a touchdown and kicked the extra point. We were ahead seven to three at the end of the third quarter.

On the second play of the fourth quarter, we punted. The ball sailed deep into the corner of the field, near their end zone. Whizzer White plucked the tumbling ball out of the air at his fifteen-yard line and dropped back to his five-yard line to evade the first of our tacklers. Then with the speed, strength, and agility that had built his reputation, he started upfield and sidestepped every player of our team. I managed only to touch him with my little finger. He ran the entire length of the field for a touchdown—thrilling for Colorado, but disappointing for us.

Later in the fourth quarter, Whizzer dashed around his own right end and beyond the line of scrimmage and ran fifty-seven yards for another touchdown. The game ended with a score seventeen to seven. Colorado won the game and the conference championship.

Though we lost, I learned the importance of constant obedience to detailed instructions of our leader. Failure to obey our coach’s two pregame warnings for just two plays—two brief lapses in an otherwise outstanding effort—cost us the game and the conference championship. That is all it took for us to lose something we had worked so hard to achieve.

I testify to you, my brethren, that your Heavenly Father loves you and wants you to receive and enjoy every blessing He has for His children, including the blessings of happiness and peace. We, the leaders of the Lord’s church, love you. We pray for you earnestly and constantly. Your leaders in your wards and branches and in your stakes and districts likewise love you and pray for you. Your parents’ prayers and love for you are beyond measure. We all want you to succeed in this life and to qualify for the greatest of God’s gifts—eternal life in the celestial kingdom. To achieve your goals in this mortal life and prove yourselves worthy of eternal blessings, learn to obey. There is no other way. Obedience brings great strength and power into your lives. (Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Live in Obedience,” Ensign, May 1994, 39)

SUMMARY

In life, we are free to choose, but we must remember that there are rewards or consequences for all decisions. Every person has experienced the blessings of obedience to principles and laws. That kind of experience brings mounting conviction that obedience to fundamental principles of truth is for our best good. As we go about our daily lives, let us always remember that the laws of the gospel are given by God in love, for He knows that obedience will bring great blessings to us—blessings of joy, happiness, and salvation. We can begin today making correct choices and thus enjoy more fully the success brought about by obedience. “You cannot be a true man until you learn to obey,” said Robert E. Lee. Even more important than that: we cannot be true disciples of Christ until we learn to obey. Consider His supernal example: “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Heb. 5:8–9). Let us strive each day to honor His atoning sacrifice by accepting Him as our Savior and obeying with faith every word with which He has blessed us.

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