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PLANNING

“The Lord is our divine Exemplar in planning. He prepared Himself in every fiber of His being to fulfill the Father’s plan “to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). We can ponder, prepare, and plan step by step to rise as ensigns of the truth for those who are seeking to find the pathway of salvation and eternal life. What deeds can we perform each and every day to be more successful missionaries of the restored gospel and thus bring joy into our lives and into the lives of all our listeners?”

Planning is an important aspect of the gospel. The gospel itself is God’s plan for us—the “great plan of happiness” (Alma 42:8; see also Alma 12:25, 30; 34:9; 42:15). We have been commanded to plan, to “organize [our]selves; prepare every needful thing” (D&C 88:119). The old adage “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail” is true. Planning to complete our goals is a key step toward success. One cannot underestimate the power of preparation through proper planning. In the Church, family, school, and workplace, planning should be part of your everyday life. Vision and planning go hand in hand: without vision, planning is an exercise in futility; without planning, vision remains but a dream. Similarly, faith and planning go hand in hand: without faith, planning is impoverished; without planning, faith remains only belief. Where vision, planning, faith, and action interact consistently, goals and objectives are more readily attained.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

Doctrine and Covenants 38:30. But if ye are prepared ye shall not fear.

Our planning and preparation will give us confidence in the Lord and confidence in His guidance and protection. We will be ready for whatever comes our way—good or bad.

Moses 6:62. And now, behold, I say unto you: This is the plan of salvation unto all men, through the blood of mine Only Begotten, who shall come in the meridian of time.

From before the foundation of the world, the Father and the Son planned every detail of the plan of happiness (see Alma 18:39). Central to this plan is the part the Savior plays in the infinite Atonement (see Alma 34:9). Similarly, we are to plan our lives in such a way that our families will have the maximum chance of achieving the goals of righteousness and exaltation.

Abraham 3:17. And there is nothing that the Lord thy God shall take in his heart to do but what he will do it.

Abraham Chapter 4 Preface. The Gods plan the creation of the earth and all life thereon—Their plans for the six days of creation are set forth.

We learn here that when Heavenly Father plans to do something, He does it. Our planning ought to follow that pattern of consistency and integrity.

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Joseph B. Wirthlin:

Most people manage their lives by crises. They are driven by external events and circumstances. As each problem arises, they focus on the problem. However, effective time managers are not problem-minded. They are opportunity-minded. They think preventably by using long-range planning. They set their priorities, organize themselves to accomplish these priorities, and then execute their tasks. In other words, they prepare, then perform their tasks to improve on their time. (Finding Peace in Our Lives [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1995], 224)

Spencer W. Kimball:

Such planning must begin early. It has been said that “even the very longest journey begins with a single first step.” So when that first step is made it must be on a properly charted course. Otherwise, habits come upon us unawares, and sin has us in its clutches before we realize it.

As well as establishing worthy goals, charting the course prevents one from living an unplanned, haphazard life—a tumbleweed existence. (The Miracle of Forgiveness [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1969], 233–34)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here is a checklist of ten things to consider when you plan:

1. Be specific. Evaluate your situation and ask, “What are my objectives?” Make specific plans with immediate and long-term results specified, and set appropriate target dates. Time-management expert Alan Lakein counsels that “Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.”

2. Be flexible. Plan from the outset to be resilient, flexible, accommodating, and willing to adjust as you go—firmness of purpose is essential, but rigidity of process is a mistake.

3. Strive for balance. Plan with balance in mind, including personal, family, professional, and community service, plus spiritual goals.

4. Look for a chain of successes. Plan for now, not just the distant future. Plan for milestones along the way, starting with today. Plan for a chain of small successes that add up to a superhighway of achievement.

5. Be cooperative. Plan as a team. The people who are affected by important decisions you make need to be involved in the planning process. Be sure that all who are part of the planning process understand your goals. In planning sessions with groups, involve everybody, delegate properly, have adequate accountability, and then follow through.

6. Focus on the benefits. Plan to accomplish your end goals and benefit from the positive consequences. Plan to reap the harvest of hard work and effort. Planning is fun if you keep the rewards in mind.

7. Chart it out. Plan in writing, preferably with a chart that makes details, relationships, and timelines clear.

8. Review often. Plan to review your plan frequently in order to keep it dynamic and alive. Abraham Lincoln confirmed: “We must ask where we are and whither we are tending.” Remember that planning is a process, not an event.

9. Back it up with resources. Put teeth in your plan by arranging to provide adequate knowledge, training, and resources to assure success.

10. Teach others to plan. Remember that planning is a function of leadership, so teach your children and dependents how to plan. Their world needs planning and organizing just like yours does. The home is the perfect schoolhouse for teaching correct principles of planning. Family home evening and family councils provide a wonderful forum for teaching planning skills and following through with tasks and assignments.

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

The story below demonstrates what can occur when we fail to plan, and how this applies to our goal to achieve eternal life.

The New Testament Came Very Forcefully to My Mind

One morning as I made a tour through the northern part of our fair city, I went down a street which I had not traveled before. Lo and behold! there was under construction one of the finest looking homes I had ever seen! This house struck my fancy because it was almost identical to a plan which my wife had hoped that we would one day build. Working for the Church, we realized it would not be possible, but we dreamed about it.

I found myself, more often than not, going that way just to see the progress of the home that was not even mine. I am sure you do things like this in your own way. A month or two had gone by; and as the house was about two-thirds completed, one morning as I passed that way I noticed that the workmen had ceased their labors. No work was being accomplished.

The days grew into weeks. The thing that gave me the most concern, as I am sure it did the owner, was that the once bright, shiny, new lumber was now starting to fade because it was not yet painted. It turned first to a light brown, a darker brown, and then to kind of an off-yellowish, indicating that the deterioration process had set in. I thought, as I made one of my frequent trips by that way, how unfortunate more insight and vision hadn’t gone into the planning.

Then, one morning as I passed by to see if there had been any progress, one of the eternal truths of the New Testament came very forcefully to my mind as I viewed the situation. It is one I am sure you are familiar with. We all have read it many times in New Testament courses and studies. Luke records it this way. He tells about an incident in the life of the Savior when a great multitude gathered, and as they frequently did, commenced to ask questions in an attempt to trap him. In this particular setting the Savior makes a very profound observation, so profound that it is just as applicable here today as it was in the time in which he uttered it. He said, as he turned to meet the multitude:

For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,

Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

Then he goes on to suggest another possibility:

Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? (Luke 14:28–31.)

Now his logic here makes pretty good sense, doesn’t it?

We could make application to the tower the Savior refers to as it might apply to eternal life. We can say, in essence, “For which of us, intending to build eternal lives, sitteth not down first and consulteth whether we will have sufficient to complete the task?” The process of educating the body, the mind, and the spirit is the foundation on which this can be achieved. (Paul H. Dunn, as quoted in Outstanding Stories by General Authorities [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1971], 2:122–124)

SUMMARY

In planning, it is always prudent to examine the costs involved in any worthwhile project—time, money, resources, and people. An architect is the perfect example of a planner, and without his or her plans, there will be no structure or finished product. In any situation, one can usually tell when poor planning has occurred: there are many observable faults within the project. Obviously, it would be good for all of us to consider our lives and plan for a better tomorrow. The ultimate model in such planning is the Lord, who has shared with us the essential points of doctrine having to do with His incomparable plan of happiness: “And the great God has had mercy on us, and made these things known unto us that we might not perish; yea, and he has made these things known unto us beforehand, because he loveth our souls as well as he loveth our children; therefore, in his mercy he doth visit us by his angels, that the plan of salvation might be made known unto us as well as unto future generations” (Alma 24:14). With an eternal model of planning communicated to us in such clarity, we have the prototype for all our myriad projects and undertakings. Above all, let us ensure that our own planning remains in alignment with the principles of honor and truth reflected by our Maker in His timeless designs for our good.

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PRAISE

“The Psalmist said: “I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High” (Psalms 9:1–2). We can help students of the gospel know that the Lord loves them. How can we touch hearts and inspire change in those we teach by lifting them through the power of praise and encouragement? How can we help motivate them to seek a higher manner of living compliant with the counsel of the Prophet Joseph Smith: “If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things” (from the thirteenth Article of Faith)?”

Some of the greatest blessings in life lie in the expression of approval for something someone else has done. People need approval. People need to feel accepted. People need to know they are all right. People need to know that they are of worth and can do meaningful things. Genuine praise and encouragement become some of the greatest motivating tools in the world. Let us say something good about our family, friends, and coworkers. It will bless our lives as well as theirs. If we are in a leadership position, we should praise, instruct, and then encourage. We will have a better relationship and all involved will find joy in the work.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

 Psalms 9:1–2. I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High.

For all the good that we have and do in life, the glory belongs to God. In all our praising we should always praise and thank God for His goodness and mercy towards us.

Matthew 25:21. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

In the Savior’s parable we catch a glimpse of the grand feelings of satisfaction we will experience if we can endure to the end in valor and righteousness, being at last welcomed by the Lord and Master with acceptance and rejoicing. In smaller but still significant measure, we can lift up and encourage others along the highways and byways of life by recognizing their good desires and efforts frequently and praising them with sincerity and genuine respect.

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Howard W. Hunter:

We enjoy life when we have the ability to praise others for their good works. George Matthew Adams said: “He who praises another, enriches himself more than he does the one praised. To praise is an investment in happiness. The poorest human being has something to give that the richest cannot buy.” (BYU Speeches of the Year, 1961, 3)

Neal A. Maxwell:

So often we can serve by bathing the wounded and bruised egos of others in the warm waters of deserved commendation. (The Neal A. Maxwell Quote Book, ed. Cory H. Maxwell [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1997], 260)

Gordon B. Hinckley:

We have such an obligation to those who are baptized into the Church. We cannot neglect them. We cannot leave them to stand alone. They need help as they become accustomed to the ways and culture of this Church. And it is our great blessing and opportunity to afford that help. . . . A warm smile, a friendly handshake, an encouraging word will do wonders (“Inspirational Thoughts,” Ensign, October 2003, 3)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

 Consider the following five points when offering praise:

 1. When

●    Do it without delay—Procrastinated praise or delayed encouragement lose their power. Do it in a timely manner, while it is still fresh in your mind.

●    Each day—Praise or encourage someone honestly and openly every day. Do it regularly. Make it a habit.

2. How

●    Be specific—Identify the precise behavior or result that has elicited your appreciation, and refer to it directly.

●    Do it with enthusiasm—It’s not always what you say, but how you say it, that conveys the true feelings.

●    Be genuine—True praise is never maudlin or affected in any way, but is always sincere and honest.

●    Use variety—Spoken words are effective, but there are other ways that can work just as well: an appropriate small gift, a related news clipping, an email message, or a favor returned—all of these can be effective. Write a complimentary note whenever possible to family, friends, and coworkers.

●    With gratitude—Remember to receive praise from others with graciousness and appreciation. Don’t turn it back, but accept it as a genuine gift.

3. What. Praise small things, not just great achievements. Praise improvements and courage for other efforts.

4. Where. Don’t hesitate to do it in public, as long as it doesn’t embarrass the person. “Advise your friends in private, but praise them openly” (Publilius Syrus).

5. Who

●    Your spouse—We often forget to give encouragement to the one closest to us. Don’t take the ones so dear for granted.

●    Especially children—Remember that children grow and improve much faster with praise than criticism.

●    Even your “enemies”—There is good in everyone. It will amaze you, often times, what effect genuine praise—direct or indirect—will have on those you consider not entirely your friends.

●    Everyone—Do it to strangers as well as friends. Look for something good about everyone you come in contact with.

●    Don’t forget Heavenly Father—Let God, “from whom all blessings flow,” also have your daily praise and thanks.

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIME

Give Vision and Encouragement

Some years ago I was near our front gate splitting rails for a fence. A young man came to make a delivery. He had recently returned from overseas combat duty. He had falsified his age and left school to join the Marines. When I asked about his future plans, he didn’t know. Jobs were scarce; he had no skills to offer.

I counseled him to go back to high school and get his diploma. He thought he couldn’t do that; he was too old now. “If you do it,” I told him, “you probably will not exactly fit in. And the students will call you the ‘old man’ or ‘grandpa.’ But you faced an enemy in combat; surely you’ve got the courage to face that.”

The lesson is this: I only spent ten minutes with him, sitting on a log by our front gate. I did not build a school or ask the Church to build one. I did not pay his tuition or prepare his lessons. What he needed was some direction, some counsel, some encouragement, and some vision. In this case he took the counsel and returned to school. Now he has a family and an occupation.

I only gave him the vision and encouragement. It does not take additional Church budget to do that. That is the responsible role of every priesthood leader in counseling members on careers. We must help people to help themselves. (Boyd K. Packer, Memorable Stories with a Message, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2000], 34–35)

SUMMARY

Honest and genuine praise and encouragement can change the soul. Thanksgiving and gratitude expressed bring so much joy to the receiver as well as the giver. As you look to see good in others, you will live the thirteenth Article of Faith. We surely should seek after praiseworthy things and bring joy to others as we practice the principle of praise and encouragement.

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PRAYER

“Missionaries teach their listeners the miracle of authentic prayer. Teaching others the truths of the gospel becomes a partnership with God through the power of prayer. How can we all make “effectual fervent prayer” (James 5:16) the mainstay of our productive missionary service? How can we guide our listeners to remain “continually watchful unto prayer, relying alone upon the merits of Christ, who was the author and the finisher of their faith” (Moroni 6:4)—and thus harvest sublime blessings of joy and salvation?”

Prayer is truly the yearning of the soul to reach God. Sincere prayer reaches to the heavens and is often a two-way communication between us and Heavenly Father. A passage from the Bible Dictionary explains prayer as follows:As soon as we learn the true relationship in which we stand toward God . . . then at once prayer becomes natural and instinctive on our part (Matt. 7:7–11). Many of the so-called difficulties about prayer arise from forgetting this relationship. Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with each other. The object of prayer is not to change the will of God, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant, but that are made conditional on our asking for them. . . . Prayer is a form of work, and is an appointed means for obtaining the highest of all blessings. (Bible Dictionary, “Prayer,” 752–53.)

We are strengthened by prayer, we worship through it, and we receive instructions from it. Alfred Lord Tennyson observed: “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.” Confirmed President Gordon B. Hinckley: “Heavenly Father . . . has invited [all] to come unto Him in prayer, to speak with Him, with the promised assurance that He will hear and respond” (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997] 238).

To make our prayers more efficacious, we should pray often and regularly, with real intent and faith, willing to accept the Lord’s will, and willing to do our part.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

James 1:5–6. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

Heavenly Father will freely give wisdom—with no condemnation—to His children as they ask. He wants us to ask. We must pray in humility and in faith, as did the Prophet Joseph Smith.

2 Nephi 32:9. But behold, I say unto you that ye must pray always, and not faint; that ye must not perform any thing unto the Lord save in the first place ye shall pray unto the Father in the name of Christ, that he will consecrate thy performance unto thee, that thy performance may be for the welfare of thy soul.

Prayer is not just a single moment when we are on our knees. It is an attitude of humility and submission to God. The Lord commands us to pray always, either on our knees or in our hearts. This continual communication with God draws us close to Him, shielding and fortifying us against temptation. This is why Satan tries to teach us not to pray, while the Spirit teaches us we must pray (see 2 Ne. 32:8).

Alma 13:28. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and call on his holy name, and watch and pray continually, that ye may not be tempted above that which ye can bear, and thus be led by the Holy Spirit, becoming humble, meek, submissive, patient, full of love and all long-suffering.

Prayer should be continual and consistent. It offends our Heavenly Father if we don’t pray (see Ether 2:14). Through prayer, we can gain the power to overcome and avoid temptation (see 3 Ne. 18:18). Frequent prayer will ensure us the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our lives (see 3 Ne. 19:9; D&C 42:14).

Alma 17:3. But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God.

The blessings of prayer and fasting can empower us to do all things. We can teach with the power and authority of God, seek forgiveness of sins (see Enos 1:4), gain knowledge of the truth (see Alma 5:46), help people who do not know God (see Alma 6:6), and bless others through our righteous prayers (see Mosiah 27:14; Alma 10:23) Through prayer, we can also counsel with the Lord and receive direction from Him (see Alma 37:37), become stronger in our humility and firmer in our faith (see Hel. 3:35) and receive the blessing of charity (see Moro. 7:48).

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Gordon B. Hinckley:

Be prayerful. You can’t do it alone. You know that. You cannot make it alone and do your best. You need the help of the Lord . . . and the marvelous thing is that you have the opportunity to pray, with the expectation that your prayers will be heard and answered. . . . The marvelous thing about prayer is that it is personal, it’s individual, it’s something that no one else gets into, in terms of your speaking with your Father in Heaven in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Be prayerful. Ask the Lord to forgive your sins. As the Lord for help. Ask the Lord to bless you. Ask the Lord to help you realize your righteous ambitions. . . . Ask the Lord for all of the important things that mean so much to you in your lives. He stands ready to help. Don’t ever forget it. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 468)

Ezra Taft Benson:

Prayer will bring solace and comfort. It has healed sickness, comforted those distressed, and has continued the faithful in paths of righteousness. The value of a man is evidenced in part by the dust on his knees. His willingness to believe in and accept a being greater than himself as evidenced by his prayer has increased his moral stature, refined his understanding, and has brought him along the road of his eternal development. Our great example in prayer is our Lord and Master Jesus Christ who knew that only through constant supplication and obedience would God the Father manifest His will and release the power for its attainment through man. Truly there is power in prayer. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 422)

Harold B. Lee:

The four essentials that the missionaries teach to one who has never prayed before are: he first must thank; he next must ask; he must do it in the name of Jesus Christ; and then he must conclude it with amen. And with that simple instruction the beginning inquirer after truth is taught to pray. In praying, he is enjoined as the father said to his son, after listening to his son’s prayers, “Son, don’t give the Lord instructions. You just report for duty.” (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1996], 126)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here are five ideas to help us with our prayers:

1. Prayer can have many forms.

●    Choose what is appropriate for the needs of the occasion—Note the rich variety of prayers: As thoughts or as words, silent and within or spoken and audible, expressed alone or as part of a group, as feelings and yearnings or as established patterns of communication, even as song (see D&C 25:12). There are as many kinds of prayers as there are individuals and circumstances.

●    Consider what is most important—There are many important aspects of prayer—the manner, the language, the appropriate form. But the most important thing is for the prayer to be sincere and genuine.

2. Prayer operates on specific, enduring principles. Some of the key principles of prayer are: vision, love, gratitude, humility, faith, and patience.

●    Vision—Allow your vision to open up fully. See yourself not as an isolated, alienated being in the darkness, but as a child of God in a divine relationship governed by light and love. Know that He cares and will answer your prayers.

●    Love—Allow love to take over your soul: love for God, love for the creation and plan of happiness, love for the potential within you planted there by God, and love for family and friends.

●    Gratitude—Allow gratitude to supplant any feelings of selfishness or envy, anger, or pride. Always express your gratitude to Heavenly Father on a daily basis.

●    Humility—Allow humility to take root in your soul—a willingness to accept the will of God and see opportunity in adversity, purpose in trials, and meaning in suffering and sacrifice. Let dependence on His higher will replace the self-sufficiency that so often turns to arrogance and ego-driven desires in mortals. Come before God with a broken heart and a contrite spirit: “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” (Ps. 34:18).

●    Faith—Allow faith to unfold within you; allow the hope for worthy things to develop even though you cannot see them at present. Remember that exercising faith is essential to efficacious prayers.

●    Patience—Allow patience to temper impetuous insistence on immediate solutions. Let the peace of patience comfort you.

3. There are simple ways to magnify the power of prayer.

●    Pray frequently—Remember daily personal and family prayers. Regardless of how inadequate or seemingly unworthy you feel, always pray. Be as worthy as possible—but always pray. Satan would encourage you not to pray (see 2 Ne. 32:8).

●    Be prepared—Always do your part. If you pray for solutions, first study things out in your mind and come to a conclusion and then take it to the Lord. Listen for confirmation or the urge to seek further (see D&C 9:7–9).

●    Focus on others, not always on yourself—Always pray for the welfare of others (see Alma 6:6).

●    Consider attitude—The proper attitude of prayer is a broken heart, a contrite spirit, real intent, the exercise of hope and faith, and knowing that a loving Heavenly Father is waiting to bless your life.

●    Seek unity—In a group setting, it enhances the feelings of accord and unity if the participants respond to the prayer of the spokesperson by echoing the word amen at the end. The word amen (with similar-sounding Greek, Latin, and Hebrew roots) means “truly” and suggests “may it become true” or “so be it.”

4. Prayer and wisdom go hand in hand.

●    Pray for the right kinds of things—Be wise in your requests. Don’t ask for unrighteous things or merely your desires of the moment. Ask for things that matter most: wisdom, understanding, health and strength, power to do good, and the well-being of loved ones. Pray for strength rather than to have a challenging situation change or disappear. The Lord will give you strength to overcome all things as you act in faith.

●    Ask forgiveness—Make prayer an opportunity to humbly express your weaknesses before the Lord, asking His forgiveness and His blessing that you may do better in the future. Thomas Guthrie put it this way: “Unless your prayers stop your sins, your sins will stop your prayers.”

●    Be thankful—Always give credit to God for all your blessings. Wisdom knows that all good flows from God.

5. Prayer is a gift to your family.

●    Teach children how to pray—Teach prayer by example within the family circle. Pray as a family frequently. Pray to bless the food at mealtime. Pray as you arise in the morning and as you retire in the evening. Express love for your spouse and children during prayer.

●    Give guidance early on—Give suggestions to very young children to help them feel their way through the patterns of prayer. In most cases, prayer comes very naturally to children, and they will have a spontaneous and beautiful way of expressing themselves before God. Praise them sincerely for their prayers. In fact, learn from your children: “little children do have words given unto them many times, which confound the wise and the learned” (Alma 32:23).

●    Show leadership—Often the momentum within a family is toward action and carrying out the hurried tasks of the day. Remember to pause for prayer. You can teach compelling lessons in harmony, peace, and service if you step forward and say, “Let’s take time to have our prayer before we continue.”

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

In this story told by Lucy Mack Smith, her fervent prayers helped preserve the lives of her sons Joseph and Hyrum.

Faith and Prayers of a Mother

On the first of August [1834], Joseph and Hyrum returned [from Zion’s Camp]. They were overjoyed to meet us again in health, more especially on account of the perils which they had passed through during their absence. Joseph and Hyrum sat down beside me, each holding one of my hands in his, while they related the following story:

“When we started on our journey, we made arrangements to have everyone made as comfortable as possible; but the sufferings which are incident to such an excursion made some of the brethren discontented, and they began to murmur against us, saying, The Lord never required them to take such a tiresome journey, and that it was folly for them to suffer such fatigue and inconvenience just to gratify us. We warned them, in the name of the Lord, to stop their murmuring; for, if they did not, the displeasure of the Almighty would be manifested in judgments in their midst. But many of them paid no attention to what we said, until one morning when they went out to harness up their horses, and found them all so lame as to be unable to travel. We then told them that this was a curse which had come upon them because of transgression; but, if they would repent, it might be removed—if not, a greater curse would come upon them. They believed what we said and repented of their folly. . . . It was not long, however, till the spirit of dissension arose again. . . .

“Soon after arriving at the point of destination, the cholera broke out in our midst; the brethren were so violently attacked that it seemed impossible to render them any assistance. They immediately sent for us to lay hands on them, but we soon discovered that this, also, was a judgment from the Almighty; for, when we laid our hands upon them, in the name of the Lord, the disease immediately fastened itself upon us and in a few minutes we were in awful agony. We made signals to each other . . . in order to join in prayer to God that he would deliver us from this dreadful influence. . . . We were hardly able to stand upon our feet, and we feared that we should die in that western wilderness without the privilege of blessing our children, or giving them one word of parting counsel. We . . . fell upon our knees and cried unto the Lord that he would deliver us from this awful calamity, but we arose worse than before. We kneeled down the second time, and when we commenced praying the cramp seized us, gathering the cords in our arms and legs in bunches and operating equally severe throughout our system. We still besought the Lord, with all our strength, to have mercy upon us, but all in vain. It seemed as though the heavens were sealed against us. . . . We then kneeled down the third time, concluding never to rise to our feet again until one or the other should get a testimony that we should be healed; and that the one who should get the first intimation of the same from the Spirit, should make it known to the other.”

They stated further, that after praying some time the cramp began to release its hold; and, in a short time, Hyrum sprang to his feet and exclaimed, “Joseph, we shall return to our families. I have had an open vision, in which I saw mother kneeling under an apple tree; and she is even now asking God, in tears, to spare our lives, that she may again behold us in the flesh. The Spirit testifies, that her prayers, united with ours, will be answered.”

“Oh, my mother!” said Joseph, “how often have your prayers been the means of assisting us when the shadows of death encompassed us.” (Lucy Mack Smith, as quoted in Best-Loved Stories of the LDS People, eds. Jack M. Lyon, Linda Ririe Gundry, and Jay A. Parry [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 132)

* * *

 This family story demonstrates the power of a prayer offered in a child’s simple faith.

The Needle

As parents we had always prayed together as a family and encouraged our children to pray for all things—for help and in gratitude. Karie Lyn, our oldest daughter, was six years old and wanted to sew with a needle and thread with her friend Cindy. My sweetheart, Pat, had suggested that if they played with a needle and thread they must be careful, because Karie’s little sister, Kristi, was playing in the same room and was learning to crawl. Karie continued to plead, so finally Pat relented and warned them to be very careful, because if Kristi swallowed the needle it would be horrible.

They were excited and began to sew. As fate would have it, within a minute the tiny needle was lost. Karie Lyn was panicked. She quickly went to her bedroom and pleaded with the Lord, “Please help me find the needle.” Hurrying back to the sewing area, she and Cindy began to search. Her prayer was answered—through another, as the Lord often does. Cindy exclaimed, “I’ve found it! I’ve found it!” Joy was felt—the needle and thread and material were returned to Mother, and Karie went directly to her bedroom and offered a prayer of gratitude. Yes, prayers are answered; even the simplest and smallest prayers are important to Heavenly Father.

—Ed J. Pinegar

SUMMARY

Obviously, there will be times when we don’t receive the answers to prayer that we anticipate. We don’t always receive the immediate or long-lasting relief that we seek. Patience and long-suffering are part of the growth process of our earthly existence. Recognizing this is a key part of prayer. We must also come to realize that we are always receiving blessings from God—though we may not always have the discernment to see them. The time will come when we will understand all things (see Alma 12:10–11; D&C 121:26–32); meanwhile, let us make prayer an enduring part of our lives. Abraham Lincoln said: “I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom, and that of all about me, seemed insufficient for the day.” When we pray we will gain wisdom, our lives will be enriched, and we will have greater power to do good.

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PRIDE

“The people taught by the emissaries of the Lord have the opportunity to set aside any prideful convictions of worldly stature and obey the counsel of the Savior in full diligence: “Come, follow me” (Luke 18:22). They fill their hearts with humble devotion to the Savior and His cause of redemption and exaltation. What can we all do to be more humble in the service of the Lord and labor to bring glory to His name? How can we understand through the Spirit that the only authentic wealth consists of the treasures of eternal life and everlasting glory?”

Pride, the universal sin, is at the crux of almost every other sins. Pride is expressed in arrogance, haughtiness, self-love, vanity, and egotism. Because pride involves man setting his will against God’s, it creates enmity between God and man. The sin of pride is directly opposed to the Christlike quality of humility. In the Book of Mormon, pride was the downfall of the Jaredite and Nephite peoples, and pride can be our downfall as well if we are not careful. Prideful thoughts are so powerful that they can lead to sinful thoughts and behavior, such as selfishness, greed, lust, jealousy, power-seeking, envy, and a whole host of related sins. This is why the Lord continually counsels us against pride (see Prov. 16:18; D&C 23:1).

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

James 4:6. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

Pride separates us from God. If we exercise humility, the opposite of pride, our lives will be enhanced through the mercy and kindness of God. Through the grace of the Lord, we can do all things (see Alma 26:11–12).

1 Nephi 11:36. And it came to pass that I saw and bear record, that the great and spacious building was the pride of the world; and it fell, and the fall thereof was exceedingly great. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me again, saying: Thus shall be the destruction of all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, that shall fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

As the spacious building in Lehi’s dream had no foundation, those who separate themselves from God have no foundation. They are left to themselves, and their pride will be their downfall, for they will receive no strength from God in pride.

2 Nephi 9:28–29. O that cunning plan of the evil one! O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish. But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God.

When we become learned in the things of the world, the egotism of self-sufficiency can develop in our hearts. The punishment for such haughtiness, such disregard for our need of the Lord, is severe (see 2 Ne. 28:15). Knowledge we gain is of worth only when we listen to and counsel with the Lord (see Jacob 4:10).

Jacob 2:16. O that he would rid you from this iniquity and abomination. And, O that ye would listen unto the word of his commands, and let not this pride of your hearts destroy your souls!

Pride has destroyed great nations and it can destroy us as individuals. Remember that pride separates us from God and leads us to a multitude of sins. Most sins begin with some form of pride (see Alma 1:32).

3 Nephi 25:1. For behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble; and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.

Being prideful carries with it consequences and resulting punishments. We cannot take lightly the sin of pride.

4 Nephi 1:24. And now, in this two hundred and first year there began to be among them those who were lifted up in pride, such as the wearing of costly apparel, and all manner of fine pearls, and of the fine things of the world.

Following the advent of the Savior in the New World, there ensued a period of several generations where the people were of one heart and one mind, living in love and harmony according to the Savior’s teachings. But the first instance of the breaking of this pattern of obedience was the introduction, once again, of pride. A small incursion of pride eventually led to the downfall of an entire nation. Pride is the poison that can dissipate charity and righteousness to the destruction of millions of lives.

Doctrine and Covenants 121:37. That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man.

Any form of prideful behavior can be our downfall as it relates to the exercise of the priesthood. The priesthood is not given to us as a means of lifting ourselves above others. We must be humble before the Lord, depend upon Him, and recognize that He is the source of all power.

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Ezra Taft Benson:

In the scriptures there is no such thing as righteous pride. It is always considered as a sin. We are not speaking of a wholesome view of self-worth, which is best established by a close relationship with God. But we are speaking of pride as the universal sin, as someone has described it. Mormon writes that “the pride of this nation, or the people of the Nephites, hath proven their destruction” (Moroni 8:27). The Lord says in the Doctrine and Covenants, “Beware of pride, lest ye become as the Nephites of old” (D&C 38:39). Essentially, pride is a “my will” rather than “thy will” approach to life. The opposite of pride is humbleness, meekness, submissiveness, or teachableness (see Alma 13:28). . . .

Pride does not look up to God and care about what is right. It looks sideways to man and argues who is right. Pride is manifest in the spirit of contention. Was it not through pride that the devil became the devil? Christ wanted to serve. The devil wanted to rule. Christ wanted to bring men to where He was. The devil wanted to be above men. Christ removed self as the force in His perfect life. It was not my will, but thine be done (see Mark 14:36; Luke 22:42).

Pride is characterized by “What do I want out of life?” rather than by “What would God have me do with my life?” It is self-will as opposed to God’s will. It is the fear of man over the fear of God. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 435)

Pride is a sin that can readily be seen in others but rarely admitted in ourselves. . . . It is manifest in so many ways, such as faultfinding, gossiping, backbiting, murmuring, living beyond our means, envying, coveting, withholding gratitude and praise that might lift another, and being unforgiving and jealous. . . .

Pride affects all of us at various times and in various degrees . . . .

Pride is the universal sin, the great vice.

The antidote for pride is humility—meekness, submissiveness.

We can choose to humble ourselves by conquering enmity towards our brothers and sisters, . . . by receiving counsel and chastisement, . . . by forgiving those who have offended us, . . . by rendering selfless service, . . . by going on missions and preaching the word that can humble others, . . . by getting to the temple more frequently, . . . [and] by confessing and forsaking sins and being born of God.

Pride is the great stumbling block to Zion. (“Beware of Pride,” Ensign, May 1989, 4.)

Gordon B. Hinckley:

And so I repeat, do not let pride stand in your way. The way of the gospel is a simple way. Some of the requirements may appear to you as elementary and unnecessary. Do not spurn them. Humble yourself and walk in obedience. I promise that the results that follow will be marvelous to behold and satisfying to experience. (Be Thou an Example [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1981], 68)

Dallin H. Oaks:

Humility is the opposite of and the antidote for the pride of self-satisfaction. To counter pride we need to cultivate humility. . . . The pride of comparison is also a matter of attitude. It is also rooted in preoccupation with self. One antidote for that preoccupation is service. Service to others swings our spotlight of priorities outward, away from ourselves. To counter pride we need to give unselfish service.

The prophet Jacob prescribed another remedy, a thought and an action that can be taken by those afflicted with the pride of comparison because of their riches: “Think of your brethren like unto yourselves, and be familiar with all and free with your substance, that they may be rich like unto you” (Jacob 2:17). To counter this kind of pride we need to be “familiar with all and free with [our] substance.”

Differences in knowledge, prominence, or position can also be sources of the pride of comparison. The prophet Alma describes how those Nephites who were “steadfast and immovable in keeping the commandments of God” resisted this kind of pride . . .

“And . . . the priest, not esteeming himself above his hearers, for the preacher was no better than the hearer, neither was the teacher any better than the learner; and thus they were all equal, and they did all labor, every man according to his strength.” (Alma 1:26.)

No matter how prominent or praised, the preacher is no better than the hearer, the teacher is no better than the learner. To avoid pride, preachers and teachers and others in prominent positions must struggle not to esteem themselves above their hearers. (Pure in Heart [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 144)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here are four ideas to help us overcome pride:

1. Tune our attitudes to the Spirit.

●    Listen for warning signs—The Spirit will guide us away from the temptation to assume a vertical relationship toward others (as if we were somehow superior) and remind us, as King Benjamin did, that we are truly nothing without the Lord and His goodness and strength: “. . . I would that ye should remember, and always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own nothingness, and his goodness and long-suffering towards you, unworthy creatures, and humble yourselves even in the depths of humility, calling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing steadfastly in the faith of that which is to come, which was spoken by the mouth of the angel” (Mosiah 4:11).

●    Cultivate gratitude—A worthy antidote to pride is a sense of gratitude toward the Lord for His blessings. Count your blessings; write them into your journal. Dismiss pride and a feeling of self-sufficiency before the Lord.

●    Let charity abound in our minds and thoughts—When we keep charity at the forefront of our hearts and minds, we have little room left for prideful interests and thoughts.

2. Set up a system of regular defenses.

●    Pray for protection against pride—Infuse daily prayers with an invocation to the Lord that He help us cleanse our souls of pride and our daily walk of any semblance of haughtiness or arrogance. Praying for humility and meekness is a noble antidote to pride.

●    Cultivate modesty—How we comport ourselves in daily life, how we dress, how we manage our surroundings—these are opportunities to practice humility and put the brakes to conceit and ego-centered habits.

●    Read the word of God—Daily scripture study is a powerful remedy for the effects of pride. The word of God renews our perspective of how we fit into the grand design of the Lord’s plan of salvation: Pondering the scriptures prayerfully kindles a sense of humility about self and love of, and dependence on, God.

●    Pay tithes and offerings—What a splendid reminder of the fact that everything we have comes from God as a gift to us. Let us have joy in returning that portion to Him that He asks of us to support the cause of building the kingdom.

●    Visit the temple often—The sacred precincts of the Lord’s house offer the world’s greatest instruction in humility, meekness, and love unfeigned. Pride is literally purged from our being as we participate worthily in temple service.

3. Serve with devotion.

●    Focus on the family—When we immerse ourselves in devoted family service, practicing unselfish love toward our spouse, our children, our grandchildren, and our extended family—giving of our ourselves: our time, our listening ear, our talents, our counsel—there is little time for pride to creep in.

●    Magnify Church callings—What a grand opportunity for humble service is afforded by our callings. Let us learn our duty in all diligence and humbly give ourselves to the Lord to be instruments in His hands for much good. Pride has no place in an environment of devoted service.

●    Serve in the community—Our neighbors and our community need our service as well. Often such opportunities can be accomplished quietly in the background, even anonymously. Sometimes we can step forward in leadership roles to serve our fellows, but always by cultivating teamwork and promoting worthy causes, never for self-aggrandizement.

4. Embrace humility as a way of life. (See Humility for detailed steps on how to apply each of the following principles.)

●    Humility is the beginning of spirituality—Recognizing our own nothingness before the Lord is where we begin our worship and dependence on Him (see Mosiah 2:20–25).

●    Humility is a quality of strength—Sometimes it takes more strength of character to be meek (see 3 Ne. 12:5).

●    Humility belongs in the family, in the workplace, in society—When we begin to lift ourselves above others, we plant the seeds of contention and strife. Humility is the basis of genuine service and charity, a quality that cannot exist with pride.

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

Apostle Marvin J. Ashton counsels us to remember that all of our blessings come from our Heavenly Father, and that we should be grateful, not boastful.

Neither Boast of Faith Nor of Mighty Works

Our Savior, Jesus Christ, to whose Church we belong, would be disappointed if we ever created the impression that the efforts and the hard work put forth to build his kingdom were based only on the wisdom and power of man.

Recently during a special women’s conference, a speaker told about how he’d been quite successful in land development and how everything he’d touched had turned to gold. He’d also tried to live a faithful life and had been a very active servant in the gospel. Then he’d been called as a mission president. He had apparently been a very effective mission president and had subsequently returned to his home state. Throughout his life he’d experienced one success after another—he was a recognized leader in his community, had built a prosperous business. Being called as a mission president had sort of cemented in his mind that he’d “made it”—that he was an all-around success.

When he returned from his mission, a combination of changing interest rates and other business factors caused his once-prosperous business to plummet. In fact, he’d lost nearly everything. Telling the story, this man said, “I realized that I’d become quite boastful—that while I felt I had a testimony of Jesus Christ, in my mind I had brought about all of these wonderful things through my hard work, intelligence, and so forth. But when hard times hit, I began to realize how offensive I must have been to others and to my Heavenly Father to assume that I had brought all of these good things on my own. I felt like I’d lived a life of arrogance and boasting.”

Helaman’s advice to his sons, Nephi and Lehi, can give us strength today:

“Therefore, my sons, I would that ye should do that which is good. . . .

“And now my sons, behold I have somewhat more to desire of you, which desire is, that ye may not do these things that ye may boast, but that ye may do these things to lay up for yourselves a treasure in heaven, yea, which is eternal.” (Hel. 5:7–8.)

Helaman wanted his sons to do good for the right reasons—not to boast, but to lay up treasures in heaven.

“Let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth” is counsel often stated. (Matt. 6:3.) This is especially true when we have had the opportunity to comfort, console, or counsel any fellowmen who are confused, troubled, or weary. Whatever success we might have had as we have tried to help should usually not be discussed, let alone boasted about. Humble, quiet, compassionate service is so soul-rewarding; who would need to point out the subject or location of kindly deeds?

“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.” (D&C 3:4.)

How easy it is for man to believe that temporal success has been achieved by his own skills and labor. Everything good comes from the Lord.

Consideration for the feelings of others should always be important to worthy Latter-day Saints. Rightfully we may be happy about the number of children with which we have been blessed, the missionaries who have served, the temple marriages of our offspring, and the accomplishments of family members; but others who are not so fortunate may have feelings of guilt or inadequacy. They may have been praying long and hard for the same blessings about which we are boasting. These people may feel that they are out of favor with God.

For this reason our appreciation should be sincerely felt and gratitude expressed frequently to our Father in Heaven—but not too vocally to the world.

May we all be gratefully aware of the source of our blessings and strengths and refrain from taking undue credit for personal accomplishments. (Marvin J. Ashton, “Neither Boast of Faith Nor of Mighty Works,” Ensign, May 1990, 65).

SUMMARY

Of all the barriers that prevent us from doing the will of God, pride is the most common. Once we realize the devastating effect pride has on us, we will avoid it like a plague. The great historian Plutarch wrote: “Five great enemies to peace inhabit with us: viz., avarice, ambition, envy, anger, and pride. If those enemies were to be banished, we should infallibly enjoy perpetual peace.” We must come unto Heavenly Father always acknowledging our unworthiness before Him (see Alma 38:14). In humility, we will find the answer to many of our problems, because we will rely upon the Lord and not boast in our own strength. Let us make a resolute, conscious effort to overcome pride and gain a sense of humility.

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PRIESTHOOD

“The Lord is our “great high priest” (Hebrews 4:14). We serve as missionaries under His direction and through His priesthood power. Families are blessed through the authority and power of the priesthood, which enables the performance of sacred ordinances on their behalf—including baptism, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the administering of holy temple endowments and eternal sealings. How can we continually honor and respect the priesthood of God as the source of our missionary commitment and strength?”

The priesthood, the authority and power of God, is given to mankind here upon the earth to act for the blessing and salvation of God’s children. Though men bear the responsibility of the priesthood, women who are faithful and sustain the priesthood are likewise recipients of its miraculous blessings and saving ordinances. The priesthood—the power by which the earth was created—is the power by which all things are done. Two grand divisions—the Aaronic and the Melchizedek—compose the priesthood, which gives direction to the Church and kingdom of God on the earth under the leadership of Jesus Christ through His holy prophets. The underlying purpose of the priesthood is to bless people’s lives.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

Doctrine and Covenants 13:1. Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth, until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness.

The Lord has seen fit to bless the worthy young men of the Church with the Aaronic Priesthood—the lesser priesthood. Though the “lesser,” it entails many important responsibilities concerning the welfare of the Church and its members. Bearers of this priesthood should not take call lightly, and should remember that they are preparing for the Melchizedek Priesthood and all its accompanying opportunities to serve. Each Aaronic Priesthood bearer should understand his mission in the Aaronic Priesthood: to become converted to the gospel, to magnify his priesthood callings, to give of himself in service, and to prepare to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood, serve a mission, receive the blessings of the temple, and become a righteous husband and father.

Doctrine and Covenants 84:19–21. And this greater priesthood administereth the gospel and holdeth the key of the mysteries of the kingdom, even the key of the knowledge of God. Therefore, in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest. And without the ordinances thereof, and the authority of the priesthood, the power of godliness is not manifest unto men in the flesh.

The Melchizedek Priesthood allows mankind the privilege of receiving the gospel, understanding the mysteries of God (see D&C 42:61), and receiving the ordinances of salvation: baptism, the reception of the Holy Ghost, and all of the temple blessings, which ordinances manifest the power of godliness and the keys to the knowledge of God.

Doctrine and Covenants 84:33–41. For whoso is faithful unto the obtaining these two priesthoods of which I have spoken, and the magnifying their calling, are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies. They become the sons of Moses and of Aaron and the seed of Abraham, and the church and kingdom, and the elect of God. And also all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord; For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me; And he that receiveth me receiveth my Father; And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Father’s kingdom; therefore all that my Father hath shall be given unto him. And this is according to the oath and covenant which belongeth to the priesthood. Therefore, all those who receive the priesthood, receive this oath and covenant of my Father, which he cannot break, neither can it be moved. But whoso breaketh this covenant after he hath received it, and altogether turneth therefrom, shall not have forgiveness of sins in this world nor in the world to come.

The oath and covenant of the priesthood (which also includes verses 42 through 44) carries with it eternal blessings if we are true and faithful: sanctification, a renewal of the body, becoming the seed of Abraham and the elect of God, and receiving all that the Father has. For those who turn away from this great covenant, severe punishments await. When one is given the opportunity to serve with priesthood authority, he must remember that where much is given much is required (D&C 82:3).

Doctrine and Covenants 121:36. That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.

To exercise the priesthood we must be worthy, inspired by the Holy Ghost, and committed to do only the will of the Lord. Faith is the foundation of all righteousness. Therefore, the principle of power by which the priesthood operates is faith—faith in our God and our Savior Jesus Christ (see Lectures on Faith [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1985], Q&A 1:3).

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

Brigham Young:

The Priesthood of the Son of God, which we have in our midst, is a perfect order and system of government, and this alone can deliver the human family from all the evils which now afflict its members, and insure them happiness and felicity hereafter. (Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1954], 130)

Gordon B. Hinckley:

The priesthood is here. It has been conferred upon us. We act in that authority. We speak as sons of God in the name of Jesus Christ and as holders of this divinely given endowment. We know, for we have seen, the power of this priesthood. We have seen the sick healed, the lame made to walk, and the coming of light and knowledge and understanding to those who have been in darkness. . . .

I want to speak a little about blessing the people, placing our hands upon their heads and blessing them. Brethren, how great is our opportunity, how tremendous our responsibility, to live worthy to be, as it were, a conduit between the powers of heaven and those upon the earth on whose heads we lay our hands. I suppose every man here who holds the Melchizedek Priesthood has had the opportunity to bless. And I suppose that, when called on to do so, he has prayed within his heart that he might be a worthy instrument to bestow a blessing upon the heads of those who come in faith. Bless the people when you set them apart and under other circumstances, in times of sickness. You fathers bless your children. Lay your hands upon their heads and bless them. You cannot do a greater thing for them. ((Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 473, 480–81)

Harold B. Lee:

Some have speculated that the strength of this church lies in the tithing system; some have thought in the missionary system; but those who understand rightly the word of the Lord understand full well that the strength of the Church is, fundamentally, in neither of these. The strength of the Church is not in a large membership, but the real strength of this church lies in the power and authority of the holy priesthood which our Heavenly Father has given to us in this day. If we exercise properly that power and magnify our callings in the priesthood, we will see to it that the missionary work shall go forward, that the tithing shall be paid, that the welfare plan shall prosper, that our homes shall be safe, and that morality among the youth of Israel shall be safeguarded. (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1996], 487)

Ezra Taft Benson:

A priesthood holder is kind. One who is kind is sympathetic and gentle with others. He is considerate of others’ feelings and courteous in his behavior. He has a helpful nature. Kindness pardons others’ weaknesses and faults. Kindness is extended to all—to the aged and the young, to animals, to those low of station as well as the high. . . .

An imperative responsibility, if you would lead more righteous lives, is to govern righteously in your priesthood stewardships. The revelation pertaining to this responsibility is in section 121 of the Doctrine and Covenants. Three phrases claim our attention: “the rights of the priesthood,” “the powers of heaven,” and “the principles of righteousness” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 216)

Bruce R. McConkie:

What, then, is the doctrine of the priesthood? And how shall we live as the servants of the Lord?

This doctrine is that God our Father is a glorified, a perfected, and an exalted being who has all might, all power, and all dominion, who knows all things and is infinite in all his attributes, and who lives in the family unit.

It is that our Eternal Father enjoys this high status of glory and perfection and power because his faith is perfect and his priesthood is unlimited.

It is that priesthood is the very name of the power of God, and that if we are to become like him, we must receive and exercise his priesthood or power as he exercises it.

It is that he has given us an endowment of heavenly power here on earth, which is after the order of his Son and which, because it is the power of God, is of necessity without beginning of days or end of years.

It is that we can enter an order of the priesthood named the new and everlasting covenant of marriage (see D&C 131:2), named also the patriarchal order, because of which order we can create for ourselves eternal family units of our own, patterned after the family of God our Heavenly Father.

It is that we have power, by faith, to govern and control all things, both temporal and spiritual; to work miracles and perfect lives; to stand in the presence of God and be like him because we have gained his faith, his perfections, and his power, or in other words the fulness of his priesthood.

This, then, is the doctrine of the priesthood, than which there neither is nor can be anything greater. This is the power we can gain through faith and righteousness.

Truly, there is power in the priesthood—power to do all things! (“The Doctrine of the Priesthood,” Ensign, May 1982, 32)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here are three ideas to help us understand the blessings of the priesthood:

1. Worthiness to exercise the priesthood comes through living a righteous life.

●    Repentance—The priesthood operates on the principle of righteousness (see D&C 121:36). We must purify ourselves through repentance and sanctify ourselves by yielding our heart unto God (see Hel. 3:35).

●    Following the will of the Lord—We are to seek the Lord’s will and not our own as we utilize His priesthood power.

●    Inspiration—When we are pure and clean, we can receive direction from the Holy Ghost.

●    Preparation—Let us commit to be spiritually prepared to exercise our priesthood whenever we are called upon to do so.

●    Gratitude—We show our gratitude for the priesthood and its blessings by living worthy of it and using it when called upon.

2. Blessings of the priesthood flow from God.

●    The process of returning to the presence of God—We can be brought back into the presence of God only by receiving and keeping the covenants and ordinances of the priesthood.

●    Worthiness—Receiving the blessings of the priesthood is always predicated upon our worthiness.

●    Sacred blessings—In every possible situation, lives have been blessed by the power of the priesthood, from raising the dead to healing the sick, from giving comfort to giving direction in life. The responsibility lies with us to ask for the blessings of the priesthood, to be worthy to receive them, and to exercise our faith.

●    Patriarchal blessings—Everyone should prepare for, and be worthy of, receiving a patriarchal blessing. This is a powerful blessing that gives invaluable guidance and instruction to the recipient.

●    Power of God—Let us never forget that everything good here upon the earth comes from the blessings of the power of God. The priesthood is this power of God on the earth.

3. The purpose of the priesthood has been taught by the prophets of every dispensation.

●    Direction for the kingdom of God—In all dispensations of time, the priesthood has been here on the earth to direct the kingdom of God and bless Heavenly Father’s children.

●    Sealing power—The priesthood provides the sealing power to enable families to endure forever, and to bring about the gathering of Israel (see D&C 110:11–13).

●    Covenant power—The priesthood provides for the governing of the Church and all the priesthood covenants and ordinances that manifest the power of godliness (see D&C 84:21).

●    Opening the way to return home—The priesthood is here to help Heavenly Father’s children return to His presence.

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

President Wilford Woodruff relates a personal experience that demonstrates the importance and power of the offices of the priesthood, the Aaronic priesthood specifically.

Honoring the Priesthood

I was once moved upon to go and warn old Father Hakeman, living on Petty-John Creek, Arkansas. He had been in Jackson County during the persecution period. His wife died there. His family consisted of five sons, all over six feet tall. Most of them had been whipped with hickory gads by mobs, and he went south into Arkansas, taking his sons with him. We went a good deal out of our way for the purpose of visiting Father Hakeman. I had a vision the night previous, in which was manifested to me the trouble that lay before us, but that the Lord would deliver us. We arrived at his house on Sunday morning. He was taking breakfast. We had had breakfast at the place where we stayed overnight. I saw a Book of Mormon on the shelf. He did not seem to pay any attention to us, or to take any interest in us. I took up the Book of Mormon, and said, “You have a very good book here.”

“Yes,” said he, “but it is a book that came from the devil.”

That opened my eyes. He had been an elder; he had been in Zion; had been persecuted there and driven out; but I found that he had apostatized, and he was our enemy. I saw he would do anything he could against us.

We left him and went to Brother Hubbard’s and stayed with him three weeks, during which we took our axes and cleared some land for him. I was strongly impressed three times to go up and warn Father Hakeman. At last I did so, according to the commandment of God to me. The third time I met with him, his house seemed to be full of evil spirits, and I was troubled in spirit at the manifestation. When I finished my warning, I left him. He followed me from his house—with the intention of killing me. I have no doubt about his intention, for it was shown to me in vision. When he came to where I was, he fell dead at my feet, as if he had been struck with a thunderbolt from heaven. I was then a priest, but God defended me and preserved my life. I speak of this because it is a principle that has been manifest in the church of God in this generation as well as in others. I had the administration of angels while holding the office of a priest. I had visions and revelations. I traveled thousands of miles. I baptized men, though I could not confirm them because I had not the authority to do it.

I speak of these things to show that a man should not be ashamed of any portion of the priesthood. Our young men, if they are deacons, should labor to fulfill that office. If they do that, they may then be called to the office of a teacher, whose duty it is to teach the people, visit the Saints and see that there is no evil or iniquity carried on. God has no respect for persons in this priesthood any further than as they magnify their callings and do their duty. (Wilford Woodruff, in Best-Loved Stories of the LDS People, eds. Jack M. Lyon, Linda Ririe Gundry, and Jay A. Parry [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 304–305)

SUMMARY

Heavenly Father allows us, through His Son Jesus Christ, to exercise His power and authority here upon the earth for the blessing and salvation of mankind. For this, we should be eternally grateful, and we should reverence our Heavenly Father by honoring the priesthood and by keeping our covenants. If we do so, through charity and virtue, magnificent blessings await us and our families: “Then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven. The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and thy scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth; and thy dominion shall be an everlasting dominion, and without compulsory means it shall flow unto thee forever and ever” (D&C 121:45–46).

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PURITY

“Purity is the true light of member missionary service, for purity sustains and shares hope, truth, joy and love. The missionaries of the Lord open the gateway of salvation for those who receive them in faith and purity of heart. How can we abide by the principle of purity in all that we think, say, and do, so that our covenant vows will be empowered by our obedience and we may be fully prepared to share the gospel with others? “

The dictionary definition of the term purity implies being free from moral or physical defilement, to be chaste, free from pollution, being absolute, blameless—even sinless. This seems a bit overwhelming, as we have been commanded to be perfect. How can we be completely pure and virtuous, when we are still mortal and subject to sin? The answer is that we can aspire to absolute purity in the strength of the Lord and through the help of the Spirit. We can repent and practice spiritual endurance. We can tell the story of the nature and blessings of moral goodness. We can testify to it and can live it and can make a difference. We can stand for purity and virtue. As we strive for purity, we may fall short, but we are on the path to perfection, and we are becoming more like our Savior.

THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US

Matthew 5:8. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

Purity of heart is reflected in our behavior, our thoughts, our intentions, and through our affections toward God. When we have a change of heart and follow through with a change in the way we comport ourselves—cultivating a “godly walk and conversation” (D&C 20:69)—we become pure and receive the blessings of the Spirit, being worthy to be in the presence of God.

Philippians 4:8. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (See also A of F 1:13.)

We should control our minds and think of good and virtuous things. Thoughts dwelled upon create a desire that, if encouraged, results in action. This is why we are commanded to “let virtue garnish [our] thoughts unceasingly” (D&C 121:45). There is great power in worthy mental exertion that activates faith! We are commanded to think about just, pure, and lovely things, and to practice virtue and holiness before the Lord (see D&C 46:33).

1 Peter 1:22. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.

We become pure and sanctified by the Spirit as we yield our hearts to God (see Hel. 3:35). As we do this, we will choose to be obedient and show love to one another, because a pure heart is always full of love.

Moroni 7:48. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen.

If we seek charity (the pure love of Christ) with all the energy of our hearts through prayer, we will eventually be filled with charity like our Savior. In this process, we become pure and virtuous (see 2 Pet. 1:5–7).

MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK

David O. McKay:

That is the mission of every man, from the President of the Church down to the latest convert in the Church. Every officer holds his position to build up, to bless; and, as President Joseph F. Smith has said, to establish righteousness, purity, and virtue among mankind. (Gospel Ideals: Selections from the Discourses of David O. McKay [Salt Lake City: Improvement Era, 1953], 143)

Ezra Taft Benson:

We covenant to live the law of chastity. The law of chastity is virtue and sexual purity. This law places us under covenant to live this commandment strictly. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 278)

Gordon B. Hinckley:

The temple is a place of covenants. . . . In the house of the Lord, as all of you know who have been to a temple, we take upon ourselves covenants and obligations regarding lives of purity and virtue and goodness and truth and unselfishness to others. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 148)

Moral cleanliness. Cleanliness before the Lord in matters of morality and virtue and purity. There is so much of pornography in the world. There is so much of evil, enticing evil, in the world. Shun it, my brothers and sisters. Avoid it. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 405.)

IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING

Here are six ideas to help us to be pure and virtuous and encourage purity and virtue in others:

1. Make a commitment to purity and virtue.

●    Set a high standard—We must establish a moral and upright standard of behavior based on the principles of the gospel. Make a commitment to be clean in all ways—emotionally, physically, intellectually, and spiritually. Do not put anything into your body or mind that is unclean. Said Hippocrates: “With purity and with holiness I will pass my life and practice my art.”

●    Be honest in our dealings with our fellowmen—We can cultivate honorable motives as we go about our professional lives. We can be honest and forthright. We can add genuine value to our associates, our customers, and all our fellow human beings. We can pay an honest tax, and honest tithe, and take an honest reward for our contributions.

●    Strive for optimum health—Understand and appreciate the principles of morality as they relate to good health.

●    Be wise—Seek the qualities of love and charity, for they are the foundation of virtue. Remember that a moment’s pleasure is often paid for with months’ or years’ worth of sorrow and misery.

2. Transform your environment.

●    Control your setting—Choose an edifying environment. Read uplifting books; watch ennobling television shows and movies; use the Internet to expand your mind rather than debase it; speak in positive and honorable terms with others.

●    Watch your step—Keep yourself out of situations that lead to promiscuity. Few active Church members plan to be immoral—it just happens because they end up in situations they are not prepared to handle.

●    Decorate and beautify your home with uplifting things—We can have a clean and wholesome home and workplace. We can purify the environment so that it reflects the kind of order that will encourage good ideas, clear thinking, and decent behavior.

3. Purity and virtue are not merely good advice; they are the gateway to eternal life.

●    Freedom—Remember that virtue is liberating, while immorality is enslaving. Virtue is your gateway to freedom, for virtue leads to harmony, peace, balance, and long-term rewards. If you capitulate to the never-ceasing hunger for momentary pleasures and titillation, if you do not fear captivating addictions, if you choose to ignore the alienation that comes from self-intoxicating lasciviousness or blatant dishonesty, then immorality is your gateway.

●    Strength—Virtue is strong, while immorality is weak. It takes strength of character to lead a life of virtue and integrity, while living a life of lax morals and pandering to appetite shows shallowness and weakness. If strength is a principle you want to live by, virtue is your gateway. If you find happiness in caving in to shallow desires or abusing others, then immorality is your gateway.

●    Honor—Virtue attracts respect and honor, while immorality repels respect. People of virtue garner honor and esteem (even though dissenters may snivel and act condescendingly). If you wish to cultivate respect and honor, virtue is your gateway. If you wish to leave behind a legacy of selfishness and loneliness, then immorality is your gateway.

4. Make it a family effort.

●    Do it for them—We keep our lives pure for the sake of our loved ones—our spouse and our children—because that gives them a life and a legacy they can build on. The Savior said, in His grand intercessory prayer, “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” (John 17:19). We leave behind for the coming generations the good seeds of wholesome behavior, harmony, peace, and love.

●    Keep marriage sacred—Honor the sacred bonds of matrimony. Never do anything before or during marriage that would violate that relationship.

●    Make a promise—As many parents do with their children, sign an agreement of chastity. Make a covenant to be pure. “Who knows what sort of life would result if we attained to purity?” mused Thoreau. And, indeed, if we attained to absolute purity, it would be a different world.

●    Make the home a school of virtue—Teach your children and family members to practice principles of upright virtue, and convey to them the promised blessings of harmony and peace. The great composer Beethoven declared: “Recommend to your children virtue; that alone can make happiness, not gold.”

5. Purity is a quality of leadership. Purity, or virtue, does not just refer to sexual purity; it also implies living with integrity, doing only good and lifting others.

●    Show leadership in purifying conversation—Do not tolerate vulgar language, and do not give in to crude and offensive discourse. Be exemplary in your manner of speech—be perfectly pure in that regard.

●    Purity leverages your leadership—Purity blends well with all aspects of leadership—at church, at home, in the workplace, and in the community. Virtue supports creativity, wisdom, planning, organizing, and managing. It is not an isolated quality, but an integral part of leadership. If we get ahead in life without virtue, we will have hurt many, including ourselves. “All virtue is summed up in dealing justly,” said Aristotle.

●    Teach virtue skillfully—Do not act “holier than thou” in practicing virtuous principles. At a moment of choice where you let virtue prevail, you can simply say to those who may disagree, “We choose to differ on this matter. I believe I will take this particular course, and leave to others the right to choose their way.”

●    Be exemplary—Virtue is best taught with deeds, not words. An example of virtuous and upright living illuminates the landscape of human behavior in a way that preaching can scarcely accomplish.

●    Be patient—Remember that becoming a virtuous person takes time—it is a lifetime goal. Be patient with yourself and improve a step at a time. Likewise, be patient with others as they learn this principle. Be a leader of influence who is modest, patient, kind, and long-suffering.

6. Draw strength from the Lord in becoming pure and virtuous.

●    Make a fresh start—Repent. We can do all in our power to correct the mistakes of the past and go forward with new resolve and a clean slate. We can apologize to any we have wronged and do everything possible to make restitution. We can go before God and confess our wrongdoings and ask for forgiveness.

●    Pray for strength—Purity and virtue flow from God. Seek the direction of the Holy Spirit to rise to the challenge of being pure and chaste.

●    Practice virtue to bless others—Remember that the purpose of virtue is to bless others; the by-product is your virtuous life and the harmony and peace that flow from it. Start the day with uplifting thoughts and ideas, and the day will unfold with greater peace and success.

ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES

An anonymous story by a concerned parent clearly demonstrates the wisdom of sexual purity.

What About Abstinence?

I was holding a notice from my thirteen-year-old son’s school announcing a meeting to preview the new course in sexuality. Parents could examine the curriculum and take part in an actual lesson presented exactly as it would be given to the students.

When I arrived at the school, I was surprised to discover only about a dozen parents there. As we waited for the presentation, I thumbed through page after page of instructions in the prevention of pregnancy or disease. I found abstinence mentioned only in passing. When the teacher arrived with the school nurse, she asked if there were any questions. I asked why abstinence did not play a noticeable part in the material.

What happened next was shocking. There was a great deal of laughter, and someone suggested that if I thought abstinence had any merit, I should go back to burying my head in the sand. The teacher and the nurse said nothing as I drowned in a sea of embarrassment. My mind had gone blank, and I could think of nothing to say.

The teacher explained to me that the job of the school was to teach facts, and the home was responsible for moral training. I sat in silence for the next 20 minutes as the course was explained. The other parents seemed to give their unqualified support to the materials.

“Donuts, at the back,” announced the teacher during the break. “I’d like you to put on the name tags we have prepared—they’re right by the donuts—and mingle with the other parents.”

Everyone moved to the back of the room. As I watched them affixing their name tags and shaking hands, I sat deep in thought. I was ashamed that I had not been able to convince them to include a serious discussion of abstinence in the materials. I uttered a silent prayer for guidance.

My thoughts were interrupted by the teacher’s hand on my shoulder. “Won’t you join the others, Mr. Layton?” The nurse smiled sweetly at me. “The donuts are good.”

“Thank you, no,” I replied.

“Well, then, how about a name tag? I’m sure the others would like to meet you.”

“Somehow I doubt that,” I replied.

“Won’t you please join them?” she coaxed. Then I heard a still, small voice whisper, “Don’t go.” The instruction was unmistakable. “Don’t go!”

“I’ll just wait here,” I said.

When the class was called back to order, the teacher looked around the long table and thanked everyone for putting on name tags. She ignored me. Then she said, “Now we’re going to give you the same lesson we’ll be giving your children. Everyone please peel off your name tags.”

I watched in silence as the tags came off. “Now, then, on the back of one of the tags, I drew a tiny flower. Who has it, please?”

The gentleman across from me held it up. “Here it is!” “All right,” she said. “The flower represents disease. Do you recall with whom you shook hands?”

He pointed to a couple of people. “Very good,” she replied. “The handshake in this case represents intimacy. So the two people you had contact with now have the disease.”

There was laughter and joking among the parents. The teacher continued, “And whom did the two of you shake hands with?”

The point was well taken, and she explained how this lesson would show students how quickly disease is spread. “Since we all shook hands, we all have the disease.” It was then that I heard the still, small voice again. “Speak now,” it said, “but be humble.”

I noted wryly the latter admonition, then rose from my chair. I apologized for any upset I might have caused earlier, congratulated the teacher on an excellent lesson that would impress the youth, and concluded by saying I had only one small point I wished to make. “Not all of us were infected,” I said. “One of us . . . abstained.” (Author unknown.)

SUMMARY

We should continually strive to attain a state of purity in our lives. In the strength of the Lord, we can become persons of noble character, exemplary behavior, integrity, and moral goodness. May we make a commitment to stand for virtue and to make a difference in the world by promoting a moral environment in our community. Consider the magnificent blessings that flow to the pure in heart: “But behold, I, Jacob, would speak unto you that are pure in heart. Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions. . . . O all ye that are pure in heart, lift up your heads and receive the pleasing word of God, and feast upon his love; for ye may, if your minds are firm, forever” (Jacob 3:1–2).

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