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SUSTAINING CHURCH LEADERS
“What joy flow unto us as we participate in the work of the Abrahamic covenant to share our witness with others so that “all the families of the earth [shall] be blessed, even with the blessings of the Gospel, which are the blessings of salvation, even of life eternal” (Abraham 2:11). Our message to others is that the Lord loves us all, and speaks to us again through the voice of living prophets, whom we sustain and uphold in faith, knowing that “all things shall be done by common consent in the church, by much prayer and faith, for all things you shall receive by faith” (D&C 26:2). How can we share our witness of the truth proclaimed by the Lord in regard to His living prophets: “. . . my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same” (D&C 1:38)?”
As members of the Church, we show our devotion to God by sustaining the prophets and leaders He has called and put in place for us. We do this by supporting them in their actions and requests and by hearkening to their words. The words they speak as our leaders are the words of God (see D&C 1:38; 21:4–6) and we should heed them lest we bring ourselves under great condemnation (see 3 Ne. 28:34–35). In addition, we are greatly blessed by believing on their words (see 3 Ne. 19:28). We give our Church leaders our sustaining vote by participating in the law of common consent, binding ourselves through that action to support them.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Matthew 10:40. He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.
When we accept the prophets and their direction, we accept our Savior and our Heavenly Father. If we are true and faithful, we can receive all that the Father has (see D&C 84:36–38).
2 Chronicles 20:20. And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.
When we choose to follow the prophets, we prosper in our lives. Furthermore, we are favored of the Lord when we follow without murmuring (see 1 Ne. 3:6).
Doctrine and Covenants 107:22. Of the Melchizedek Priesthood, three Presiding High Priests, chosen by the body, appointed and ordained to that office, and upheld by the confidence, faith, and prayer of the church, form a quorum of the Presidency of the Church.
By the law of common consent, we sustain the First Presidency with our prayers and our faith (see D&C 26:2). We should pray daily for the welfare of the Brethren so that they may bless the Church and all the world.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
James E. Faust:
She [my mother] always taught us to sustain our bishop and our stake president and the General Authorities. She said that if we did not sustain our leaders, we were not sustaining our God, because they are the representatives of the Lord. She also taught us that when we criticize the leaders of the Church, we are on the road to apostasy. I have tried to follow my mother’s teachings in this regard. (To Reach Even unto You [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1980], 65)
James E. Faust:
I do not believe members of the Church can be in full harmony with the Savior without sustaining his living prophet on the earth, the president of the Church. If we do not sustain the living prophet, whoever he may be, we die spiritually. Ironically, some have died spiritually by exclusively following prophets who have long been dead. Others equivocate in their support of living prophets, trying to lift themselves up by putting down the living prophets, however subtly. (Reach Up for the Light [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1990], 111)
Howard W. Hunter:
As I have pondered the messages of the conference, I have asked myself this question: How can I help others partake of the goodness and blessings of our Heavenly Father? The answer lies in following the direction received from those we sustain as prophets, seers, and revelators, and others of the General Authorities. Let us study their words, spoken under the spirit of inspiration, and refer to them often. The Lord has revealed his will to the Saints in this conference. (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, edited by Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1997], 213)
Neal A. Maxwell:
It is exceedingly important for members of the Church to get experience following the prophets in little things, so that they can follow in large matters. By following the prophets in fair weather we become familiar with their cadence, so that we can follow them in stormy times too, for then both our reflexes and our experience will need to combine to help us; the stresses will be so very real. (All These Things Shall Give Thee Experience [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1979], 102)
Joseph B. Wirthlin:
The Savior has declared that whether we receive the word of God “by [his] own voice or by the voice of [his] servants, it is the same.” (D&C 1:38.) If we are to follow Christ, we must follow the prophet, the Lord’s mouthpiece on earth. (Finding Peace in Our Lives [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1995], 234)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are some suggestions for sustaining the General Authorities and local leaders:
1. Pray for them. Pray for their well-being of our Church leaders, and for them to be
inspired of the Lord. Our prophets and other General Authorities often express their gratitude for the prayers of the Saints.
2. Hearken to their counsel. Head and conform your life to the counsel of Church leaders. Doing what they ask you to do is a symbol of your love for them and for the Lord.
3. Worthiness—Be worthy of blessings of the priesthood and to be directed by the Holy Ghost.
4. Be easily entreated and quick to obey—Receive the word of God from leaders with an eager heart and willingly follow their direction.
5. Never judge, criticize, find fault, or murmur—Do not speak evil of the Lord’s chosen leaders, and this is a sure way to inactivity and apostasy. Rather, seek to understand and follow their words.
6. Give honest feedback when asked. When asked for information or your opinion, be honest and forthright so that needs can be accurately assessed and revelation received in regard to the situation.
7. Give freely of your time. Organize your life so you can take the time to serve well. When you magnify your callings, you are sustaining and following your leaders.
8. Increase your faith. Work to build your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. When your faith is strong, you will be eager to receive and follow the Lord’s servants.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
Apostle L. Tom Perry tells of his father’s interaction with the prophet Joseph F. Smith while living in his home, then uses one of his fathers experiences to emphasize the importance of following and sustaining the prophet.
Heed the Prophet’s Voice
While my father attended L.D.S. High School, he worked and lived in the home of President Joseph F. Smith. He wrote in his life history about President Smith:
“Most great men that I have known have been deflated by intimate contact. Not so with the prophet Joseph F. Smith. Each common everyday act added inches to his greatness. To me he was a prophet even while washing his hands or untying his shoes.”
My father tells of one experience in which the prophet taught him a practical lesson late one night as he entered the Beehive House. Again quoting from my father’s life history:
“I walked with guarded steps through the office, then into the private study to the door at the foot of the steps that led to my bedroom. But the door would not open. I pushed and I pushed to no avail. Finally I gave up and went back to a rug that I had noticed in the hall with the intention of sleeping there until morning.
“In the darkness I bumped against another partially opened door and the collision awakened the prophet. He turned on the light and, seeing who it was, came down the stairway and inquired concerning my difficulty.
“‘The door is locked that leads to my room,’ I explained. He went to the door and pulled instead of pushed, and the door opened. Had he been disturbed by my foolish blunder I would not have been surprised, for I had robbed him of a precious night’s sleep by a thoughtless act. He only smiled and stopped to inquire of a strange stable boy what I had stumbled into. I pointed to the half open door at the other end of the hall.
“‘Let me show you something.’ He took time at midnight to explain, ‘When in the dark, never go groping with hands parted and outstretched; that permits doors to get by your guard and hit you. Keep your arms in front, but hands together; then you will feel with your hands and not your head.’ I thanked him and moved to my quarters. He waited until I reached the rear stairway and then he retired.”
Isn’t a prophet someone who teaches us to open doors we could not open ourselves—doors to greater light and truth? Isn’t a prophet like a pair of hands clasped together in front of the body of the Church, helping members navigate through the dark corridors of the world? Isn’t a prophet someone who watches and waits for us patiently while we get to where we need to be?
Never has there been a time when the written and spoken word can descend upon us from so many different sources. Through the media we find analysts analyzing the analysts, almost overwhelming us with opinions and different views.
What a comfort it is to know that the Lord keeps a channel of communication open to His children through the prophet. What a blessing it is to know we have a voice we can trust to declare the will of the Lord. As the prophet Amos taught, “Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). (L. Tom Perry, “Heed the Prophet’s Voice,” Ensign, November 1994, 17)
SUMMARY
As we sustain and follow our Church leaders, we will be blessed and receive strength. The Lord Himself explains that we receive not only Him and the Father by receiving His servants, but entrance into the kingdom of God (see D&C 84:36–38). Let us remember that as we raise our hands to the square in common consent, we covenant to put forth effort and faith necessary to sustain our leaders. We do this by praying for them, by following their counsel, by not speaking evil of them, and by magnifying our callings.
♦
TEACHING
“The greatest of all teachers is our divine Exemplar, Jesus Christ. We all teach His truths. We all share our witness that His Spirit is the eternal Comforter. Teaching is dynamic. It is love in action. It is the banner of charity unfurled. It is “press[ing] forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men” (2 Nephi 31:20). How can we best honor His word: “To preach my gospel by the Spirit, even the Comforter which was sent forth to teach the truth” (D&C 50:14)?”
The act of teaching has great potential for influencing the growth of others. Henry Adams said, “A teacher affects eternity. He can never tell where his influence stops.” Whether by precept or example, a skillful teacher creates an atmosphere of learning and inspires change and improvement. For good or ill, all of us are teachers because invariably someone is watching or listening. Great teachers have the power, the skills, and the opportunity to make a difference in others’ lives and society.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Mosiah 23:14. And also trust no one to be your teacher nor your minister, except he be a man of God, walking in his ways and keeping his commandments.
As teachers, we have the responsibility seek to be worthy to teach by keeping the commandments. As learners, we should pray for those who teach to be worthy and prepared to teach by the Spirit. Whether or not we can teach or learn things of an eternal nature depends on our worthiness to receive the promptings of the Spirit.
Doctrine and Covenants 42:14. And the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach.
We simply cannot teach properly or effectively without the assistance of the Holy Ghost. We must seek the Spirit in our teaching, for the Spirit will tell us the very things we need to say (see D&C 100:5–6). With the Spirit, we will teach by the power and authority of God (see Alma 17:3), and we will teach others to walk in His ways and to love and serve one another (see Mosiah 4:15). When we teach by the Spirit of Truth, those present will hear by that same Spirit (see D&C 50:17–22).
Doctrine and Covenants 68:25, 28. And again, inasmuch as parents have children in Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized, that teach them not to understand the doctrine of repentance, faith in Christ the Son of the living God, and of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the hands, when eight years old, the sin be upon the heads of the parents. . . . And they shall also teach their children to pray, and to walk uprightly before the Lord.
According to these verses, we have duties as parents that cannot be delegated to any other person or organization. We stand condemned if we fail to teach our children to understand gospel principles and to follow the ways of the Lord.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
N. Eldon Tanner:
In my opinion no greater call can come to anyone than to be a teacher in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We are all teachers in one way or another, whether we have been called and set apart as such or not. The Savior himself was known as the greatest of all teachers. Let us try in every way to emulate him and his example. (“Teaching Children of God,” Ensign, October 1980, 2)
M. Russell Ballard:
I believe there is no greater call in the Church than to be an effective teacher. Effective teaching by the Spirit can stir the souls of men with a desire to live the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ more completely. (“Teaching—No Greater Call,” Ensign, May 1983, 68)
Joseph Smith:
Be careful that you teach not for the word of God the commandments of men, nor the doctrines of men, nor the ordinances of men, inasmuch as you are God’s messengers. Study the word of God, and preach it and not your opinions, for no man’s opinion is worth a straw. Advance no principle but what you can prove, for one scriptural proof is worth ten thousand opinions. We would moreover say, abide by that revelation which says “Preach nothing but repentance to this generation,” and leave the further mysteries of the kingdom till God shall tell you to preach them, which is not now. (HC, 3:395–96)
Ezra Taft Benson:
We are to use the Book of Mormon as the basis for our teaching. The Lord states: “And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel, which are . . . in the Book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel.” (D&C 42:12.) As we read and teach, we are to liken the Book of Mormon scriptures unto us “that it might be for our profit and learning” (1 Nephi 19:23). (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 306)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are six qualities of an effective teacher:
1. An effective teacher teaches by the Spirit. An effective teacher prepares to teach with the Spirit by being obedient to the commandments (see D&C 20:77, 79), being full of love (see D&C 76:116), and by exercising faith.
2. An effective teacher is motivated by love and respect.
● The key ingredient is love—Above all other qualities, an effective teacher has a generous measure of love for the student.
● Show respect—A part of showing love is showing respect. An effective teacher treats his or her students with dignity and encouragement.
3. An effective teacher is visionary.
● Focus on the potential—An effective teacher sees less of what is, and more of what might be. Above all, a good teacher has confidence in the outcome of the teaching process, because only where the teacher sees clearly the potential of the student can that student be taught to catch the vision of his or her own future.
● Open the eyes of your students—An effective teacher illuminates new pathways, better opportunities to seek growth, and better knowledge for living and learning?
● Illuminate the understanding—One key to effective teaching is to ensure that students understand the information and see its value. This improves their attitudes and increases their studious behavior.
4. An effective teacher is exemplary of the learning process.
● Be diligent—An effective teacher demonstrates the qualities of hard work, persistence, and the determination to excel so that you can model the very process by which the student, too, can master the subject.
● Know your students—An effective teacher knows the needs, concerns, strengths, and desires of his or her students. Effective teaching involves teamwork. No teaching can occur in a vacuum.
● Earn their trust—An effective teacher establishes relationships of trust and credibility with students.
● Be humble—An effective teacher is humble, ever willing to confess that he or she likewise is a student who must continue to learn each day, to increase in the mastery of the subject.
● Be balanced—The effective teacher demonstrates an interest in all areas of learning, both secular and spiritual, rather than confining intellectual curiosity to isolated concerns.
5. An effective teacher builds an environment for optimal growth.
● Cultivate a genuine locus of learning—Create an appealing atmosphere for learning and change. This does not refer to the classroom or to the physical space as much as to the framework for learning—the vision, the relationships, the opportunities, the excitement, and the encouragement.
● Focus on desire—When you create the desire to learn, the hardest step in the learning process has been taken. Desire is the fuel for learning. “Experience teaches only the teachable,” counseled Aldous Huxley.
● Listen—A master teacher listens. This skill allows the teacher to discern the needs, strengths, and potential of the individual. Said one anonymous writer: “Until you know how they feel, think, and believe, you cannot teach with power.”
● Master the techniques that foster learning—Teach efficiently and effectively. When the heart is touched, there is greater change.
● Use action—Involve students in the teaching process. Discovery learning is very powerful.
● Use high energy—Make learning fun and exciting. Learning can be one of the great adventures of life.
● Encourage reach—Help students stretch beyond their level. This inspires creativity and discovery.
● Be honest and candid—Be forthright with your students. Where a student is heading into unproductive pathways, the effective teacher will set forth with clarity the consequences so that the student can choose more wisely.
● Be gracious—Never embarrass a student in front of his or her peers.
● Use praise—Praise your students for work well done.
● Be creative—Be resourceful and innovative. No legitimate option for learning should be left unattended and unapplied where it might assist the individual student to have the “aha’s” needed for true discovery.
6. An effective teacher is patient.
● Never give up—Be patient. Some students grasp concepts immediately; others take more time. You cannot force a young tree to grow up any faster than nature has provided for its growth. But you can continually nourish it, nurture it, prune it in wisdom, and provide an environment where it can rise to fulfill its destiny.
● Watch for the straggler—Encourage those who struggle and fall behind. Look for the signs of discouragement. Shore up the weak and instill hope in the fearful.
● Have relentlessly high expectations—Always expect the best out of students.
● Start in the family—The family setting is the seedbed for effective teaching. Sir Francis Drake reminded us: “see that ye hold fast the heritage we leave you, yea, and teach your children value.”
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
In a general conference address, Vaughn J. Featherstone explains how great teachers teach souls, not just lessons.
Impact Teachers
What miracles an impact teacher can achieve by giving honest appreciation and a sense of self-worth! The parent or teacher who honestly satisfies this heart hunger will hold a child or a class in the palm of his hand.
Some years ago when Aldin Porter was president of the Boise North Stake, he dropped by the home of Glen Clayton, who was the Scoutmaster in his ward. Glen and his son were working together repairing a bicycle. President Porter stood and talked to them for a few minutes and then left. Several hours later he returned and the father and son were still working on the bike together. President Porter said, “Glen, with the wages you make per hour you could have bought a new bike, considering the time you have spent repairing this old one.”
Glen stood up and said, “I’m not repairing a bike, I’m training a boy!”
That year twenty-one boys achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in Glen’s troop. Impact teachers do not teach lessons, they teach souls. (Vaughn J. Featherstone, “The Impact Teacher,” Ensign, November 1976, 103)
SUMMARY
There is an ancient Greek saying: “If a teacher influences but one, his influence never stops.” T be effective teachers, we must ask ourselves, “How can I help my students?” “How can I strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ?” Let each of us seek to emulate the greatest teacher who ever lived, our Master Jesus Christ, who said, “Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me” (D&C 19:23).
♦
TEMPLE WORK AND FAMILY HISTORY
“Missionaries of the Lord light two special radiating candles for their willing listeners—the first is the candle of salvation through baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the second is the candle of exaltation through temple blessings in the House of the Lord. The temple is the Missionary Training Center of the eternities. It is the ultimate site for gathering in the dispersed of Israel. It is the place where eternal families are sealed together unto everlasting life in the mansions on high. How can we all best serve as the conveyers of these sacred truths so that our listeners can bring into their homes the fullness of the Lord’s blessings of salvation and eternal life?”
Temples are “The House of the Lord,” erected and dedicated as sacred precincts where we can worship God and receive the ordinances of exaltation. Going hand in hand with temple work is family history work, wherein we search out our ancestors and perform their temple work. Family history and temple work are essential to eternal families—without this work, families could not be bound together through eternal ordinances. The restoration of the priesthood and the sealing power through Elijah has, as prophesied, caused the children and their fathers to turn towards each other (see D&C 2). As we complete our ancestors’ temple work, we can be made perfect with them (see D&C 128:15). Preparing a written record of our family history also brings gratitude for the past and for the sacrifices made by our predecessors. Family histories can serve as inspiration and motivation for descendants to live righteous lives, and the process of preparing the histories can bring families closer together. Following family history research with performing the sacred temple ordinances gives our ancestors the keys to exaltation, while giving us increased knowledge and spirituality.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Doctrine and Covenants 2:1–3. Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming. (See also Mal. 4:5–6; 3 Ne. 25:5–6; JS–H 1:37–39.)
The sealing power restored by Elijah truly has changed the hearts of mankind. The Spirit of Elijah inspires us to turn back to those who have gone before and seek after them. In another important way, it has made family members turn to their immediate family in compassion and love. Part of the purpose of this existence is for us to experience family relationships and be bound through the ordinances of the temple. The question remains: Do we have the Spirit of Elijah in our hearts?
Doctrine and Covenants 128:15. And now, my dearly beloved brethren and sisters, let me assure you that these are principles in relation to the dead and the living that cannot be lightly passed over, as pertaining to our salvation. For their salvation is necessary and essential to our salvation, as Paul says concerning the fathers—that they without us cannot be made perfect—neither can we without our dead be made perfect.
Our exaltation is dependent upon our searching after our dead and performing the ordinances they cannot perform for themselves. The proxy work we do for them in the temple provides them with the saving ordinances, and it provides us with time in the temple to worship, learn, and grow spiritually. This work is our responsibility and it will bring us great joy.
Doctrine and Covenants 128:24. Behold, the great day of the Lord is at hand; and who can abide the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appeareth? For he is like a refiner’s fire, and like fuller’s soap; and he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness. Let us, therefore, as a church and a people, and as Latter-day Saints, offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness; and let us present in his holy temple, when it is finished, a book containing the records of our dead, which shall be worthy of all acceptation.
The vicarious work we do for our deceased ancestors is recorded in our temples. This “book” is our offering in righteousness unto the Lord, and as He accepts it, the temple work is recorded in heaven.
Doctrine and Covenants 138:53–58. The Prophet Joseph Smith, and my father, Hyrum Smith, Brigham Young, John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, and other choice spirits who were reserved to come forth in the fulness of times to take part in laying the foundations of the great latter-day work, Including the building of the temples and the performance of ordinances therein for the redemption of the dead, were also in the spirit world. I observed that they were also among the noble and great ones who were chosen in the beginning to be rulers in the Church of God. Even before they were born, they, with many others, received their first lessons in the world of spirits and were prepared to come forth in the due time of the Lord to labor in his vineyard for the salvation of the souls of men. I beheld that the faithful elders of this dispensation, when they depart from mortal life, continue their labors in the preaching of the gospel of repentance and redemption, through the sacrifice of the Only Begotten Son of God, among those who are in darkness and under the bondage of sin in the great world of the spirits of the dead. The dead who repent will be redeemed, through obedience to the ordinances of the house of God.
As the children of God in this last dispensation, we have been called to lay the foundation of this great latter-day work: proclaiming the gospel, perfecting the Saints, and redeeming the dead. We build temples; we do vicarious work for the dead; we preach the gospel. We do vicarious temple work so that the spirits on the other side of the veil can enjoy the blessings of the ordinances of the temple.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Ezra Taft Benson:
We have an obligation to do temple work for our kindred dead. This means that we must do the necessary research in order for their names to be sent to the temples. We cannot be exalted without being eternally linked to our ancestors. (Come unto Christ [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1983], 105)
I promise you that, with increased attendance in the temples of our God, you shall receive increased personal revelation to bless your life as you bless those who have died. (“The Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants,” Ensign, May 1987, 85)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
This vicarious work constitutes an unprecedented labor of love on the part of the living in behalf of the dead. It makes necessary a vast undertaking of genealogical research to find and identify those who have gone before. (Be Thou an Example [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1981], 131)
The Lord has made it possible for us in these holy houses to receive our own [ordinances]. Then we have the opportunity and responsibility of extending these same blessings to those who have passed on without the privilege. But in the very process there comes into our own lives a refinement of character, together with increased spirituality. It is interesting to reflect on the fact that although many on the other side may not receive the ordinances done for them here, those who perform these ordinances will be blessed in the very process of doing so. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 622–23)
Boyd K. Packer:
Those who fail to partake of the privileges and blessings of temple work deprive themselves of some of the choicest gifts within the keeping of the Church. (The Holy Temple [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1980], 3)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Some things to remember and do as we strive to be worthy of temple ordinances:
1. Be clean and pure to enter the temple.
● Repent of sins—We should spare no effort to cleanse ourselves of the influence and burdens of sin. No unclean thing should enter the temple.
● Keep our covenants and obey the commandments—We must keep the covenants we have already made in preparation to going to the temple and making more covenants. We must pay our tithes and offerings, honor our baptismal and priesthood covenants, keep the Word of Wisdom, attend our meetings, and magnify our callings.
2. Strengthen our testimony.
● Seek learning—As we prepare to enter the temple, we should learn all we can about it beforehand. Attending temple preparation classes and studying the scriptures and Church materials about the temple will increase our enthusiasm to attend the temple and solidify our testimony of the importance of the work.
● Be worthy of the Spirit—Let us be worthy of the confirmation of the Spirit regarding these sacred truths: That God lives; that His Son accomplished the Atonement on behalf of all of God’s children; that the Restoration brought back to earth the kingdom of God, with living prophets and the power of the priesthood; and that the scriptures are true.
Some things to remember and do in regard to our temple ordinances and covenants:
1. Understand the temple ordinances.
● Sanctification—The sanctifying power of the Lord Jesus Christ is signified through the washings and anointings (initiatory work).
● Endowment—We learn about the plan of salvation and are empowered from on high as we receive our temple endowment.
● Sealings—Couples can be together forever and have an eternal family as they honor their covenants entered into as part of their temple marriage or sealing.
2. Attend the temple often.
● Continue to learn—Regular temple attendance refreshes our minds and deepens our understanding. Make a schedule to attend the temple as often as possible.
● Inspiration—We can gain great knowledge in the Lord’s house, including answers to prayers and insights into our Church callings (see D&C 97:13–16).
● Peace—We will feel the peace of the Lord in His holy house. It is a refuge from the world and our temporal cares.
3. Remember to keep the covenants in daily life.
● Safety and worthiness—The covenants we make with Heavenly Father and our Savior apply to our daily lives. If we live these covenants, we will be protected both spiritually and temporally according to the Lord’s will. Most importantly, keeping our covenants will help us be worthy to return to our Father’s presence.
● Blessings—Remember the blessings of keeping our temple covenants. Elder Russell M. Nelson has stated, “The supreme benefits of membership in the Church can be realized only through the exalting ordinances of the temple. These blessings qualify us for ‘thrones, kingdoms, principalities, and powers’ in the celestial kingdom” (Perfection Pending, and Other Favorite Discourses [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1998], 130).
Some things to remember and do in regard to redeeming the dead through vicarious service:
1. We become “saviors on Mount Zion” as we perform proxy service for those who have gone on before. (See Obad. 1:21.)
● All righteous acts are motivated by love—Our love for mankind is truly exhibited by our Christlike service in the temples.
● The miracle of vicarious service—We become perfected as we help perfect others through vicarious service in the temple (see D&C 128:15). We are “saviors” in performing a work for others that they cannot perform for themselves.
2. Family history is a legacy of love.
● Blessings in writing—Family histories, journals, letters, and other writings bless generations yet unborn.
● Temple information—Often we obtain information from family histories that allows us to prepare names for temple work.
● Inspiration—Family histories provide wonderful stories and examples of sacrifice that strengthen descendants. They provide teaching opportunities from those who have gone on before. Take the time and read your ancestors’ histories and, better still, leave your own writings to your children.
3. Family history research (genealogical research) is our duty and our joy. Your ward family history consultant is a great resource to help you through each of the following steps.
● Identify your ancestors by gathering information from all sources—The Church’s FamilySearch is the greatest asset in the world to aid in family history research. In addition, it is helpful to consult available family histories and visit your local Family History Center.
● Record your information—Become familiar with Personal Ancestral File (PAF) computer program from the Church to facilitate cataloging and using your family history information. PAF can be downloaded free of charge from the Church’s website, www.lds.org.
● Comply with temple guidelines—Be aware of the information needed to submit your ancestors’ information for temple work.
● Analyze and search—Determine which ancestors need temple ordinances.
● Prepare names for submission—Use PAF and TempleReady to prepare names for submission.
● Submit the information—Properly submit your ancestors’ information to the temple of your choice.
● Perform the ordinances—Be sure all the temple work is done and recorded. Enlist your family and friends to complete the work if necessary.
Some things to remember and do in teaching your children about temple work and family history:
1. Set an example of regular attendance at the temple. When you go to the temple, let your children know where you are going, what you are doing, and why you are doing it.
2. Speak of the temple often to your children.
● Testimony—Bear your testimony of the temple and its importance.
● Be thankful—Express gratitude for the blessings of the temple and your eternal family.
● Lay the foundation for celestial marriage—Teach your children concerning temple marriage and its vital blessings.
● Family gatherings—Talk of the temple in family home evening and family council.
● Vicarious work—Arrange for children of age to do baptisms for the dead.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
Elder Melvin J. Ballard recounts a story from his father’s life that illustrates the importance of doing vicarious temple work for our kindred dead.
Take This to Your Father
I recall an incident in my own father’s experience. How we looked forward to the completion of the Logan Temple. It was about to be dedicated. My father had labored on that house from its very beginning, and my earliest recollection was carrying his dinner each day as he brought the rock down from the quarry. How we looked forward to that great event! I remember how in the meantime father made every effort to obtain all the data and information he could concerning his relatives. It was the theme of his prayer night and morning that the Lord would open up the way whereby he could get information concerning his dead.
The day before the dedication while writing recommends to the members of his ward who were to be present at the first service, two elderly gentlemen walked down the streets of Logan, approached my two young sisters, and, coming to the older one of the two placed in her hands a newspaper and said:
“Take this to your father. Give it to no one else. Go quickly with it. Don’t lose it.”
The child responded and when she met her mother, her mother wanted the paper. The child said, “No. I must give it to father and to no one else.”
She was admitted into the room and told her story. We looked in vain for these travelers. They were not to be seen. No one else saw them. Then we turned to the paper.
The newspaper, The Newbury Weekly News, was printed in my father’s old English home, Thursday, May 15th, 1884, and reached our hands May 18, 1884, three days after its publication. We were astonished, for by no earthly means could it have reached us, so that our curiosity increased as we examined it. Then we discovered one page devoted to the writings of a reporter of the paper, who had gone on his vacation, and among other places had visited an old cemetery. The curious inscriptions led him to write what he found on the tombstones, including the verses. He also added the names, date of birth, death, etc., filling nearly an entire page.
It was the old cemetery where the Ballard family had been buried for generations, and very many of my father’s immediate relatives and other intimate friends were mentioned.
When the matter was presented to President Merrill of the Logan Temple he said, “You are authorized to do the work for those, because you received it through messengers of the Lord.”
There is no doubt but that the dead who had received the gospel in the spirit world had put it into the heart of that reporter to write these things, and thus the way was prepared for my father to obtain the information he sought. (Melvin J. Ballard, Three Degrees of Glory [Salt Lake City: Magazine Printing Co., 1922].) (Jack M. Lyon, Linda Ririe Gundry, and Jay A. Parry, eds., Best-Loved Stories of the LDS People [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 254)
SUMMARY
There is no greater work than helping people come unto Christ. As Heavenly Father’s work and glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of His children (see Moses 1:39), so our work and glory can be to assist in this labor. Family history and temple work is the culmination of Heavenly Father’s plan in that it perfects the family and prepares us for our future roles in the worlds to come. We should take the time to make family history and temple work a key part of our lives, for as the Lord has said: “This is eternal lives—to know the only wise and true God, and Jesus Christ, whom he hath sent. I am he. Receive ye, therefore, my law” (D&C 132:24).
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TEMPTATION
“The Lord’s missionaries reach out to help their listeners overcome temptation “in the strength of the Lord” (Psalm 71:16) and thus partake of the living plan of happiness. Continual watchfulness and prayer will sustain those who come into the fold of Christ as devoted Saints of God and enable them to repel all temptation as they abide by the sacred and healing counsel of the Redeemer. How can we as the Lord’s missionaries be noble guides for those who are striving to overcome temptation and live according the plan of happiness?”
Temptation exists because there is opposition in all things (see 2 Ne. 2:11). Without opposition, which includes temptation, there can be no growth and progression. Even our Savior Jesus Christ was tempted in all things, though He never succumbed (see Heb. 4:15; Mosiah 3:7). Without temptation, we could not be “agents unto ourselves,” learning and choosing good or evil (see D&C 29:39). Satan tempts us in a variety of ways: making us think that our decisions really don’t matter, creating doubt and unbelief, enticing us with the lusts of the flesh (see James 1:12–15), and in many other devious and insidious ways. When we love the world and its allurements more than God, we are more susceptible to temptation—we become carnal, sensual, and devilish (see Moses 5:13). Recognizing the temptations that surround us helps us to prepare ourselves to resist these forces.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
JST Matthew 6:14. And suffer us not to be led into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
In the Lord’s prayer, the King James version uses the phrase “lead us not into temptation.” The Prophet Joseph made this correction in his translation, which shows us that the Lord would never “lead” us to be tempted (see James 1:13), but rather “allows” us to be tempted as we travel the pathways of mortality and exercise our agency.
2 Peter 2:9. The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished.
Heavenly Father knows how to help us, and He will always provide a way for us to succeed. We will be succored by the Lord according to our needs as we are tempted (see D&C 62:1).
James 1:12. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
The crowning blessings for enduring all things here upon the earth will be exaltation. Overcoming temptation is part of the test in proving ourselves worthy during our second estate (see Abr. 3:25).
1 Nephi 15:24. And I said unto them that it was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction.
In this verse, Nephi refers to the iron rod, or the word of God. Searching the scriptures and feasting upon the word of God will help us stay on the straight and narrow path. As we hold to the iron rod, we will be able to avoid and overcome temptation.
2 Nephi 4:27. And why should I yield to sin, because of my flesh? Yea, why should I give way to temptations, that the evil one have place in my heart to destroy my peace and afflict my soul? Why am I angry because of mine enemy?
This section of the psalm of Nephi asks questions that each of us need to consider in regard to temptation. He answers his own questions in verses 28–35. To paraphrase Nephi’s words, we need to: (1) Awaken our soul—do something; (2) Don’t quit trying because of our problems or afflictions; (3) Pray for strength and realize the Savior is our rock; (4) Ask for redemption and succoring from the Lord and the capacity to abhor the very thought of sin; (5) Ask for His strength to provide the way through temptation and to be encircled with His righteousness; (6) Put our trust in the Lord (see Prov. 3:5–6) and not in the arm of flesh; and (7) Know that the Lord will help us if we ask Him to in faith (see Alma 13:28; 3 Ne. 18:18).
Mormon 9:28. Be wise in the days of your probation; strip yourselves of all uncleanness; ask not, that ye may consume it on your lusts, but ask with a firmness unshaken, that ye will yield to no temptation, but that ye will serve the true and living God.
In our prayers, we should ask for specific help in resisting temptation—not just sound out platitudes of generality. Our prayers to avoid temptation should be continual (see Alma 34:39), and we must remember to never ask that we might remain in and enjoy temptation.
Doctrine and Covenants 23:1. But beware of pride, lest thou shouldst enter into temptation.
Pride, a sin itself, is one of the primary precursors to others sins. It opens many doors by which Satan can enter in and tempt us. This is why the Lord continually admonishes us to beware of pride.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Harold B. Lee:
To have strength to overcome temptation is God-like. The strong, the virtuous and the true of every generation have lived pure, clean lives, not because their emotions were less impelling nor because their temptations were fewer but because their will to do was greater and their faith in divine guidance won them strength through prayer that proved their kinship with the great Exemplar who gave us the pattern for the perfect life. (Decisions for Successful Living [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1973], 43)
Howard W. Hunter:
A personal testimony of the Savior and his atonement can help us avoid temptation. Strive to build a personal testimony of Jesus Christ and the atonement. A study of the life of Christ and a testimony of his reality is something each of us should seek. As we come to understand his mission, and the atonement which he wrought, we will desire to live more like him. We especially encourage the young men and young women to come to know the reason for the atoning sacrifice of our Lord. When temptations come, as they surely will, an understanding of the Savior’s agony in Gethsemane and his eventual death on the cross will be a reminder to you to avoid any activity that would cause the Savior more pain. Listen to his words, “For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent; But if they would not repent, they must suffer even as I” (D&C 19:16–17). (The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1997], 31)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
You constantly are faced with difficult choices. Your problems are not new, but they are intensified. You are subjected to temptations that are attractive and appealing. You represent the future of this Church, and the adversary of truth would like to injure you, would like to destroy your faith, would like to lead you down paths that are beguiling and interesting, but deadly. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 642–43)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here is a list of some major temptations and ideas for overcoming them:
1. Pride. Pride totally degrades our relationship with Heavenly Father and short-circuits our dependence on Him. Pride pits our will against God’s will, and it separates us from Him. It is a damning attribute that we should avoid at all costs. Not only does pride make us vulnerable to temptation, it is sin itself.
Antidote: Humility. Humility is the antithesis of pride. It is the beginning virtue of exaltation.
2. Selfishness. The predominant concern for oneself, with little or no concern for others, is known as selfishness. It can destroy marriages and families.
Antidote: Love. Love is the ultimate concern for others that brings about righteous service. Love is the most pure motive for all good deeds.
3. Greed. Greed or avarice is an insatiable desire for gain. When we are greedy, we always want more, especially more than others. This often leads to dishonest practices to gain more.
Antidote: Charity. When we truly love our fellowmen, we desire for all to succeed. The love of Christ—or charity—is the answer to greed. The united order, practiced early in the Restoration, was a way in which people would have all things in common—no one would have “more” than his neighbor. This initiative failed because people were greedy and selfish, not centered upon the virtue of charity.
4. Lust. Lust is an insatiable desire commonly associated with sexual relations. This temptation carries many destructive consequences when contemplated or—much worse—acted out. Many souls and families are destroyed because of sexual transgression.
Antidote: Spiritual conversion. Understanding key gospel doctrines will help us in overcoming lust. These doctrines include the worth of souls, our divine nature, the fact that our bodies are temples, charity, and self-mastery, to mention a few. When these doctrines are internalized, we will want to protect and bless others and never destroy another person’s virtue—or our own.
5. Jealousy, envy, gossip. These sins, which tend to lead to greater sin, are a result of resentment toward others for their achievements, qualities, and/or possessions. We often tear others down to aggrandize ourselves or raise ourselves higher in the eyes of others. This usually happens when we have low self-confidence or don’t understand our self-worth.
Antidote: Love for others. Love for our fellowmen and understanding their divine nature can overcome jealousy, envy, and gossiping.
6. Apathy. When we fail to care about life or to feel anything toward others, we are apathetic. Apathy can lead us into many temptations and sins, because we think that important things just don’t matter. Apathy often follows discouragement, both major tolls of Satan and his followers.
Antidote: Love. If apathy is failing to care, then ultimate caring will overcome apathy. The opposite of apathy, love is caring.
7. Precepts of men. The moral conduct and values of mankind have deteriorated to such a point that we should beware of the standards and behaviors of society. We should not put our trust in the arm of flesh (see 2 Ne. 4:34).
Antidote: Word of God. Gospel knowledge from the scriptures and the living prophets will give us a standard and value system based on the foundation of the Lord Jesus Christ (see Hel. 5:12). Understanding the doctrines, principles, and covenants in the gospel of Jesus Christ will not only give us a standard for righteous behavior but will help us live the teachings of our Savior.
8. Fear of man. Peer pressure and the fear of condemnation by another person often tempt us and lead us to sin. Such was the case with Martin Harris and the lost 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript (see D&C 3:7). Likewise, we often are not at our best when seeking to “fit in” with the crowd.
Antidote: Fear of God. Let us learn to fear the consequences of an offended God more than man. When we reverence our Heavenly Father, we will be exactly, immediately, and courageously obedient. We will seek to please God rather than man. When we love God, we will keep His commandments (see John 14:15).
9. Anger. When we become angry, we can be provoked and tempted into irrational behavior. If aroused to wrath and even rage, we behave in a completely unchristlike manner. From abuse to road rage, anger can leave a trail of victims to which the sinner must make recompense.
Antidote: Prayer. The presence of anger in a person is a character flaw. We can improve our character through prayer (see Hel. 3:35; Moro. 7:48), and we can pray for strength to overcome temptation (see 3 Ne. 18:18). In addition, we can search the scriptures and receive strength and courage to move forward. When we truly love another person, we will never strike out in anger, wreaking havoc or causing physical harm.
10. Hypocrisy. When we attempt to act by false pretense, pretending to be someone we are not, we are a hypocrite. The Lord condemned hypocrisy as a very grievous sin (see Matt. 6:2–5,16; 7:5; 23).
Antidote: Belief in our divine nature—Like anger, hypocrisy is a character flaw. When we are hypocritical, we seek to raise ourselves in the eyes of others. We were born with self-worth—we are the divine children of God the Father, and our value never changes in His eyes. When we believe this, we value the worth of others as well as ourselves. We should never seek to put others down in an attempt to elevate ourselves, and we should not seek to judge (see 3 Ne. 14:1). Let us seek to become like Christ and not just be a member of the Church in name only.
11. Vanity. When we are preoccupied with our appearance and achievements, we suffer from vanity. Vanity reeks of pride, because when we are vain we care more about ourselves than our fellowmen. We seek to appear better than others.
Antidote: Love. Love of fellowmen, recognizing your true worth, and humility—all these will help overcome vanity. There is also a great joy and a suppression of vanity in honestly praising others.
12. Unbelief. When we fail to accept gospel truths or suffer from a lack of conviction, we are in a state of unbelief. This creates a major problem in our value system by which we live—hence we are easily tempted and swayed by the sophistry of man. The Book of Mormon clearly teaches how unbelief can lead people astray (see 1 Ne. 12:22–23).
Antidote: A softened heart. Let us cultivate an easily entreated soul, a willingness to ask, and a genuine desire to be a seeker of truth. Yielding our heart and spirit to the Lord will surely help us begin to believe in the things of God.
13. Additional temptations. The list of temptations could go on, just as could a listing of the many ways we can sin (see Mosiah 4:29). General antidotes for other temptations include the following:
● Charity—As we exercise the pure love of Christ, we will gain the power to overcome temptation.
● Humility—Humility will give us strength in the Lord (see Ether 12:27).
● The word of God—Search the scriptures and hold to the iron rod on a daily basis (see 1 Ne. 15:24; Hel. 3:29)
● Nurture—Nurture the word with faith, diligence, and patience (see Alma 32:40–43).
● Prayer—Pray with all your heart (see Alma 13:28; 31:10; 34:39; 3 Ne. 18:15, 18; D&C 61:39).
● Follow the Spirit—Seek the Spirit in all things and you will not be led away into sin. The Spirit will lead you (see 1 Ne. 4:6), comfort you (see Moro. 8:26), give you gifts for doing all things (see Moro. 10 and D&C 46), show you all things to do (see 2 Ne. 32:5), and give you truths to live by (see Moro. 10:5). When we yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, we put off the natural man, which is carnal, sensual, devilish, and unrepentant, and become a saint with more power to resist temptation (see Mosiah 3:19).
● Obedience—Righteousness begets righteousness and yields not to temptation (see Alma 11:23). Keeping the commandments through obedience will allow us to have the Spirit—and we will not sin when we are acting under the influence of the Holy Ghost.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
Hugh B. Brown relates the training of Arabian horses to our ability to avoid temptation and hearken to the voice of the Lord.
When the Bell Rings
May I tell a story to illustrate the point that a man must respond to his better self if he is going to be a worthy holder of the priesthood.
The story is told that the Arabians, when they are training their horses, put them to a final test of character and stamina. It is said that the finest of the Arabian horses which are kept for breeding stock are trained from the time they are colts to respond to a bell which rings intermittently at the tent of the master. Wherever they are and whatever they are doing, they must run to the tent of the master when the bell rings. Their mothers were taught it before them, and they respond, and the colts, running beside the mother, habitually as time goes on respond to the bell and know that it is the call of duty.
When the colts are three years old, they are placed in a pole corral that they can see through. They are left there three days and nights without food or water. At the end of the third day hay and grain and water are placed just outside the corral.
You can imagine the eagerness of the young colts as they look through the bars at the food and water. When the gate is opened the young colts rush out, and just as they are about to reach the food and water, the bell rings. Only those of them that have stamina enough to respond to the bell and resist the urge of appetite are kept for the breeding stock of the future.
Brethren, as we go forward, we become increasingly aware of the fact that there is a bell which rings very frequently throughout life. Sometimes men become unresponsive or hard of hearing and disregard the bell to their own sorrow. You young men are going to hear it many times between now and the time you are our age. We plead with you to resist the call of appetite and passion and hearken to the bell which is your conscience. If you are tempted to do wrong, there will always be something within you saying, “Don’t do it.”
Hearken and respond to that bell, and you will be worthy of the confidence that the President of the Church has in you, worthy to take over the responsibilities now held by your fathers, your brothers, your leaders. (Hugh B. Brown, Conference Report, April 1963, 91)
SUMMARY
As we rely on the Lord, we can overcome temptation. When our spirit is strong and we follow the Lord, we can overcome and avoid temptations, thus being free from sin. Self-mastery comes as we become spiritually strong in the Lord. The Lord will always provide us a way to avoid temptation and to do His will. Let us build a value system based upon the gospel of Jesus Christ, make a commitment to keep our covenants, and not yield to temptation.
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TESTIMONY
“A testimony is a gift from heaven, as the Apostle Paul confirmed: “Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man . . . can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost” (1 Corinthians 12:3). When we bear our testimony to others with full purpose of heart, we bless their lives in our role as emissaries of the Lord: “And I give unto you this promise, that inasmuch as ye do this the Holy Ghost shall be shed forth in bearing record unto all things whatsoever ye shall say” (D&C 100:8). Our testimony serves as the anchor of faith, the armor of gospel strength, and the peaceful assurance that we are doing the will of God in the here and now. How can we best exemplify this principle as we all participate in missionary service and share the truths of the gospel with others?”
A testimony is the priceless knowledge of eternal truths received by the power of the Holy Ghost. As members of Jesus Christ’s Church, we can have a witness of many eternal verities. These include the fact that God is our Father, that Jesus is the Christ, that revelation is the pattern for God’s dealing with man, that Joseph Smith was the Prophet of the Restoration, that gospel truths were indeed restored through the Book of Mormon, and many other related matters. By the power of the Holy Ghost, we can know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord’s Church once again established here upon the earth and that a living prophet leads us. The Lord Himself told us that we can know the truth of all things by the power of the Holy Ghost. When we sincerely bear our testimonies, the Spirit testifies of the truthfulness of our words, for the Spirit bears witness of all truths. Each of us should seek to have our own testimony of eternal truth.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
2 Timothy 1:8. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God.
If we are not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ (see Rom. 1:16), we will never waver in bearing or living our testimony. Honoring our spiritual witness that the gospel is true makes us worthy of the blessings of the Lord and covenant candidates for the blessings of exaltation, based on our obedience, righteousness, and enduring to the end.
Mosiah 18:9. Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life.
At baptism, we covenant to stand as witnesses of Jesus Christ—to bear testimony of Him and testify of gospel truths—at all times. We are disciples of Jesus Christ and have taken upon us His name. All sincere testimonies are powerful, for they are born of the Spirit. When we bear witness of eternal truths, others will believe us because of the witness of the Spirit.
Alma 4:19. And this he did that he himself might go forth among his people, or among the people of Nephi, that he might preach the word of God unto them, to stir them up in remembrance of their duty, and that he might pull down, by the word of God, all the pride and craftiness and all the contentions which were among his people, seeing no way that he might reclaim them save it were in bearing down in pure testimony against them.
Alma knew the power of the word of God taught by the Spirit. Humble listeners believe the preaching of the truth because the Holy Ghost carries it unto their hearts (see 2 Nephi 33:1). It is the spirit of prophecy that testifies of Christ (see Rev. 19:10).
Alma 5:45–47. And this is not all. Do ye not suppose that I know of these things myself? Behold, I testify unto you that I do know that these things whereof I have spoken are true. And how do ye suppose that I know of their surety? Behold, I say unto you they are made known unto me by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold, I have fasted and prayed many days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me. And moreover, I say unto you that it has thus been revealed unto me, that the words which have been spoken by our fathers are true, even so according to the spirit of prophecy which is in me, which is also by the manifestation of the Spirit of God.
Alma, a prophet of God who had seen angels and experienced miracles, received his testimony the same way each of us receives ours. There is no substitute for the power of the Spirit. To gain a testimony like Alma’s, we must fast and pray to know the things of God. The Holy Spirit will reveal to us that Jesus is the Christ (see Alma 7:13); this is the spirit of revelation (see Alma 6:8).
Doctrine and Covenants 62:3. Nevertheless, ye are blessed, for the testimony which ye have borne is recorded in heaven for the angels to look upon; and they rejoice over you, and your sins are forgiven you.
Standing up for truth and righteousness as we bear our testimonies blesses in every facet of our lives. In addition, this scripture informs us that the testimonies we bear are recorded and read in heaven, and that through bearing our testimonies we receive forgiveness of our sins.
Joseph Smith—History 1:26. I had now got my mind satisfied so far as the sectarian world was concerned—that it was not my duty to join with any of them, but to continue as I was until further directed. I had found the testimony of James to be true—that a man who lacked wisdom might ask of God, and obtain, and not be upbraided.
We can learn of gospel truths as we follow the word of God and our prophets. We can receive a witness after the trial our faith, and we can know all things by the power of the Spirit (see Ether 12:6).
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Gordon B. Hinckley:
If there are any lacking that testimony, you can get it; and you must get it. How? The Lord has said that he that doeth the will of the Father shall know of the doctrine, “whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” (John 7:17.) That’s the way you gain a testimony. You do the will of the Father, and as certainly as you do the will of the Father you will know of the truth of the gospel, including the knowledge that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 648)
Richard G. Scott:
A strong testimony is the unshakable foundation of a secure, meaningful life where peace, confidence, happiness, and love can flourish. It is anchored in a conviction that an all-knowing God is in command of His work. He will not fail. He will keep His promises.
A strong testimony is the sustaining power of a successful life. It is centered in an understanding of the divine attributes of God our Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. . . . A testimony is fortified by spiritual impressions that confirm the validity of a teaching, of a righteous act, or of a warning of pending danger. Often such guidance is accompanied by powerful emotions that make it difficult to speak and bring tears to the eyes. But a testimony is not emotion. It is the very essence of character woven from threads born of countless correct decisions. . . . A strong testimony gives peace, comfort, and assurance. It generates the conviction that as the teachings of the Savior are consistently obeyed, life will be beautiful, the future secure, and there will be capacity to overcome the challenges that cross our path. A testimony grows from understanding truth, distilled from prayer and the pondering of scriptural doctrine. It is nurtured by living those truths in faith and the secure confidence that the promised results will be obtained. . . . Your personal security and happiness depend upon the strength of your testimony, for it will guide your actions in times of trial or uncertainty.
Honestly evaluate your personal life. How strong is your own testimony? Is it truly a sustaining power in your life, or is it more a hope that what you have learned is true? Is it more than a vague belief that worthwhile concepts and patterns of life seem to be reasonable and logical? Such mental assent will not help when you face the serious challenges that will inevitably come to you. Does your testimony guide you to correct decisions? To do so, fundamental truths must become part of the very fiber of your character. They must be an essential part of your being, more treasured than life itself. If an honest assessment of your own testimony confirms that it is not as strong as it should be, how can it be strengthened?
Your testimony will be fortified as you exercise faith in Jesus Christ, in His teachings, and in His limitless power to accomplish what He has promised. . . . A powerful testimony distills from quiet moments of prayer and pondering as you recognize the impressions that will accompany such effort. Humble, trusting prayer brings consolation, solace, comfort, direction, and peace the unworthy can never know. (“The Power of a Strong Testimony,” Ensign, November 2001, 87–89)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are several ideas to help us gain and strengthen our testimonies:
1. Desire to know the truth. Alma taught that desire is the beginning of the process of exercising faith to know the truth (see Alma 32:27). You must want to have a testimony.
2. Study the word of God from the scriptures and living prophets. The word of God has power to change you (see Alma 13:5), and it will tell you all things to do (see 2 Ne. 32:3). From the scriptures, you can learn of God and the Savior Jesus Christ (see John 5:39). Truth is found in the word of God (see John 17:17).
3. Fast and pray to know the truth. Heavenly Father will give you answers to your prayers (see James 1:5–6). He answered the Prophet Joseph. He answered Alma (see Alma 5:45–47), and He answered countless others. He will answer you, too, for He is no respecter of persons (see D&C 38:16). The Holy Ghost will make the truth of all things known unto you (see Moro. 10:5).
4. Live your testimony—When you live the things you believe, this practice becomes part of your nature. Your character is the result of living what you value. You will become what you believe.
5. Bear your testimony. The more you bear your testimony by the Spirit, the stronger it will become. Speaking of helping others gain a testimony, Elder Boyd K. Packer has taught us, “There are two dimensions to testimony. The one, a testimony we bear to them, has power to lift and bless them. The other, infinitely more important, the testimony they bear themselves, has the power to redeem and exalt them. You might say they can get a testimony from what we say. The testimony comes when they themselves bear a witness of the truth and the Holy Ghost confirms it to them” (Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1991], 15).
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
Apostle Joseph B. Wirthlin, in an excerpt from a general conference address, witnesses to the truthfulness of the gospel as he explains how he gained his testimony.
Pure Testimony
May I tell you how I gained a testimony of the truth and divine nature of this great latter-day work? I’m afraid my experience isn’t very dramatic. It is not a story of heavenly hosannas or thundering shouts. It is not a story of lightning, fire, or flood.
But I have always known the reality and goodness of God.
From my earliest memories it was there—a sure and abiding testimony of this great work. Sometimes that assurance comes when we feel the love of the Savior when we meet His servants. I remember when I was just five years old and my family moved into a new ward. That first Sunday, Bishop Charles E. Forsberg, who was born in Sweden, came up to me and called me by name. I knew then.
During the cold and gray days of the Great Depression I remember a wonderful servant of the Savior by the name of C. Perry Erickson. Brother Erickson, a contractor, had a difficult time finding work. He could have shut himself up. He could have become bitter and angry. He could have given up. Instead, when I was 12 he was my Scoutmaster. He spent countless hours helping me and others my age to learn, to grow, and to approach every difficulty with confidence and optimism. Without exception, every one of C. Perry Erickson’s Scouts received an Eagle award. I knew then.
Yes, the testimonies of priesthood leaders and faithful ward members helped me to know.
I remember the words of my mother and father. I remember their expressions of faith and love for their Heavenly Father. I knew then.
I knew the reality of the Savior’s compassion when, at the request of my father, the bishop of the ward, I delivered food and clothing to the widows and poor of the ward.
I knew, when as a young father, my wife and I gathered our children around us and expressed our gratitude to our Heavenly Father for our many blessings.
I knew last April, when I heard from this pulpit the words of our prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley, who called Jesus his friend, exemplar, leader, Savior, and King. . . .
Now, I would like to bear my testimony—I know that Joseph Smith saw what he said he saw, that the heavens opened and God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to an unlearned youth reared in the backwoods of New York.
As a special witness of the name of Jesus Christ in all the world, I promise you that if you seek the Lord, you will find Him. Ask, and you shall receive.
I pray that you may do so and testify to the ends of the earth that the gospel of our Lord and Savior is restored to man! (Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Pure Testimony,” Ensign, November 2000, 22)
SUMMARY
The pure knowledge given us by the Spirit is our testimony. In order to claim the blessings of our loving Heavenly Father, We must be valiant in our testimony. We must strengthen our testimony by studying, praying, living the gospel, and bearing witness of the truthfulness of the gospel and Church of Jesus Christ. As we seek to do these things, the grace of God will enable us to be instruments in His hands as we witness to the world of eternal truths. The Apostle Paul made it clear that “no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost” (1 Cor. 12:3). Therefore, let us live in a manner that will invite the sacred influence of the Holy Ghost to touch our lives and give us an abiding testimony of the Savior, His Atonement, and the saving truths of the gospel.