VISITING TEACHING
“In what ways does visiting teaching relate to missionary work? In many helpful ways—just as home teaching does. Visiting teachers are noble exemplars of charity: “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity” (1 Corinthians 13:13). Visiting teachers spread the gospel message through word and deed (see James 1:27). Visiting teachers reach out in tenderness and care to the downhearted and the inactive and encourage them to come forward along the pathway of salvation (see D&C 81:5). How can visiting teachers, home teachers, and all who participate in teaching gospel principles under priesthood direction follow the example of the Savior in greater measure in order to help build the kingdom of God on earth and prepare for the Second Coming of our Lord?”
Visiting teaching is similar to home teaching. Relief society sisters strengthen each other as they give messages pertaining to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Visiting teachers support and comfort their sisters in the Relief Society. As visiting teachers and disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, they show charity and love (see John 13:34–35), strengthen and help others (see D&C 81:5; 108:7), and nurture them in love (see Moro. 6:4). So much pressure is put on today’s women to abandon the values of previous generations. The women of the Church are able to support and lift one another unlike any other group of women. Visiting teachers should pray for strength and wisdom as they represent the Lord and Church leaders in this most important assignment.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
James 1:27. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
Visiting teachers display their devotion to God as they serve their fellow sisters. This is what the gospel is all about—living the principles of charitable service in our daily lives.
Doctrine and Covenants 108:7. Therefore, strengthen your brethren [and sisters] in all your conversation, in all your prayers, in all your exhortations, and in all your doings.
When we build caring relationships, we are better able to strengthen one another both temporally and spiritually. We can strengthen each other not only in visiting (conversation), but in sincere prayer, in our teaching, and in all our service.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Spencer W. Kimball:
Visiting teaching is a great opportunity for service. To be successful, it seems to me that a visiting teacher would wish to have high purpose and remember it all the time, would want to have great vision, a terrific enthusiasm that cannot be worn down, a positive attitude, of course, and a great love. . . .
There are many sisters who are living in rags—spiritual rags. They are entitled to gorgeous robes, spiritual robes, as in the parable. It is your privilege more than your duty. We talk so much about duty, but it is your privilege to go into homes and exchange robes for rags. . . .You cannot miss a home with impunity; you must not pass a sister by, even if she is a little uncomplimentary, or not too happy for your visit. . . .
For a [home] teacher or a visiting teacher to accept a responsibility of four, five, six, or seven homes, and leave them in their spiritual rags and tatters is without excuse; and when you go into the homes, there should be no vain babblings or swelling words. You are going to save souls and who can tell but that many of the fine active people in the Church today are active because you were in their homes and gave them a new outlook, a new vision. You pulled back the curtain. You extended their horizons. You gave them something new. Maybe they will never tell you about it in all their lives, but you did the work just the same.
You see, you are not only saving these sisters, but perhaps also their husbands and their homes. (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982], 527)
Howard W. Hunter:
Sisters, continue to seek opportunities for service. Don’t be overly concerned with status. Do you recall the counsel of the Savior regarding those who seek the “chief seats” or the “uppermost rooms”? “He that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” (Matt. 23:6, 11.) It is important to be appreciated. But our focus should be on righteousness, not recognition; on service, not status. The faithful visiting teacher, who quietly goes about her work month after month, is just as important to the work of the Lord as those who occupy what some see as more prominent positions in the Church. Visibility does not equate to value. (“To the Women of the Church,” Ensign, November 1992, 95)
Joseph B. Wirthlin:
We urge home teachers and visiting teachers to look after their families in a spirit of charity. Home teaching and visiting teaching are vehicles for saving souls when they are done the right way with the right intent. (Finding Peace in Our Lives [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1995], 216)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are a few ideas to consider in your calling as a visiting teacher:
1. Recognize visiting teaching as a divine calling.
● Realize the power of love and service—You have more influence that you can know in befriending and serving. Even those strong in the gospel need to be lifted at times.
● Acknowledge the power of true conversion—The visiting teaching calling is designed to help sisters become more deeply converted. The program is inspired; miracles can happen through visiting teaching.
● Understand the worth of souls—Because the Lord cares so much for each of His children, He has asked us to look after one another. This is why He designed the visiting teaching program.
● Increase your faith in the Savior—This is His work. You represent Him.
● Improve your prayer habits—Sometimes the greatest service you can provide to your sisters is prayer. Often, in praying for a sister, you can be inspired with how you can help her.
2. Evaluate your efforts.
● Do you truly show that you care for your sisters?—Or are they merely an assigned “project”?
● Do you recognize that you are on the errand of the Lord?—Do you convey His live and His message?
● Do you seek to understand your sisters’ needs and attempt to fulfill them?—Or do you assume everything is fine when it seems that way on the surface?
● Do you really pray for your sisters and their well-being?—Or do you just mention them in passing once in a while in your prayers?
● Do you look for opportunities to serve your sisters and then do it?—Or do you use the old cliché, “Let me know if I can help in any way.”
● Do you report our stewardship to our leaders regularly?—Visiting teaching isn’t done until it is reported.
3. Remember the important things.
● Appointments—Call and make appointments early in the month. This shows you care.
● Special occasions—Remember birthdays and special days in the lives of the sisters.
● Honors—Find out about any success or honors that each sister has received and seek to praise and encourage her. If it has been published, bring the newspaper article.
● Surprises—Learn each sister’s favorite foods, hobbies, and activities and then surprise her with a simple gift.
● Above all, teach the gospel—Invite the Spirit to direct you and in turn bless the sister and according to her needs.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMESS
In an Ensign article, a sister shares her experiences with visiting teaching and explains how she learned the true spirit of the program.
Learning to Cherish Visiting Teaching
For many years I envisioned visiting teachers as older women who delivered casseroles to each other. Not eager to enter that world, I reluctantly accepted my first visiting teaching assignment to visit four sisters in my BYU ward. The sisters I visited seemed as uncomfortable as I was, and I was relieved when visits ended early.
Shortly after I was married, I again was called to be a visiting teacher. I wondered what I could teach these sisters, who seemed so secure in their families and homes. When my visiting teaching partner, a 65-year-old widow, asked me to give the message, I stumbled through it—my gaze never leaving the manual.
My attitude gradually softened as I watched my visiting teaching partner prepare for each visit by praying that we would be able to discern the needs of the sisters we taught. The idea that these sisters, so outwardly radiant and successful, might have problems intrigued me. Although I began to look at them differently, my ideas about visiting teaching remained relatively unchanged.
During my next encounter with visiting teaching, I was assigned to visit four sisters, and I was determined to be the “perfect” visiting teacher. I gave the prepared message, visited early in the month, and brought cookies and cakes, birthday treats, and Christmas gifts.
But the feelings of sisterhood I had expected didn’t materialize, and I blamed the visiting teaching program. If only I were assigned to visit women whose circumstances matched my own, if only the sisters appreciated the time and effort I spent in visiting them, if only . . .
These new feelings went unchanged for several years. I still tried to visit with promptness and enthusiasm. However, I paid scant attention to the needs of the sisters. All of my energy was devoted to meeting what I perceived as the requirements of a visiting teacher. I doubled my efforts—I remembered not only the sisters’ birthdays but also those of their children. I tended their children and arranged meals at the arrival of a new baby.
Again I questioned why I didn’t feel the promised rewards. Frightened by sisters with whom I had little in common, I avoided close relationships with them. Besides, I rationalized, visiting teaching took time away from my family. It required patience to juggle schedules and involved finding baby-sitters for my children.
When I was assigned to visit Ann, a widow in her sixties, I grumbled once more. After all, I thought, how could I expect to feel a commitment to someone who was so different from me? How could I possibly develop a lasting friendship with a woman who was twice my age and no longer had small children at home?
But I soon discovered that she and I shared an offbeat sense of humor, one that often baffled others. As we learned more about each other, our friendship grew. Both computer illiterate, we struggled to learn word processing together. We cried together when she was diagnosed with cancer.
I no longer tried to be the “perfect” visiting teacher—I was too busy being Ann’s friend. It was a friendship that endured until several years later when she died.
Through visiting Ann I learned what I had lacked in my other visiting teaching assignments—love. I now try to share love and sisterhood with those I visit. I no longer fear differences—I appreciate them.
I’ve learned that the composition of visiting teaching is much like that of a symphony. The common melody of the gospel allows us to harmonize. However, the differences among us create an exquisite counterpoint, one all the more beautiful for its occasional unexpectedness. As each strain of the symphony is heard, a common theme emerges—one of love and compassion among sisters, strengthening each other and bringing us closer to our Heavenly Father. (Jane McBride Choate, “Learning to Cherish Visiting Teaching,” Ensign, March 1995, 28)
SUMMARY
Visiting teaching can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience as visiting teachers catch the vision and importance of this sacred work—blessing the lives of the sisters they visit. Once visiting teachers catch the true vision of visiting teaching, their desire will increase. They will prepare every needful thing in order to be good visiting teachers. They will be full of enthusiasm and will make and keep commitments. Effective visiting teachers are committed and devoted servants of the Lord and true undershepherds to their sisters. They honor their baptismal covenants (see Mosiah 18:8–9). As sisters serve as loving visiting teachers, acting with a humble and obedient spirit, the work will prosper and lives will be blessed.
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WIFE
“When the Lord’s missionaries are invited into a family circle, they enter into a sacred realm, for the partnership of husband and wife is based on principles of noble harmony: “. . . let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband” (Ephesians 5:33). Missionaries reach out with a conviction that “The family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children” (from “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” [1995]). What a magnificent office and calling is that of “wifehood.” How can we all as the Lord’s emissaries follow the Spirit by using words of counsel that will encourage wives and husbands to follow these family principles with loving kindness?”
It is difficult to distinguish all the roles of womanhood; they form a seamless whole. The role of wife and mother is without equal in the world today. The wife is a companion, comfort, and partner to her husband. In his vision of the spirit world, President Joseph F. Smith beheld “our glorious Mother Eve, with many of her faithful daughters who had lived through the ages and worshiped the true and living God” (D&C 138:39). What a transcendent view of wifehood and motherhood was vouchsafed the prophet as he confirmed the nobility of these sacred roles. It is a reminder to us all that the faithful and honorable woman holds an exalted place among all of God’s children. As the poet Goethe exclaimed (in Faust): “Das ewig weibliche zieht us hinan”—The eternal womanly draws us on.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Genesis 2:18. And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
We see here God’s ordination of the first marriage. He points our the great and important role women play in the scheme of humanity. Wives and husbands are associates. They work together in council. They are partners in the greatest cause on earth—the immortality and eternal life of Heavenly Father’s children.
1 Corinthians 11:11. Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.
Exaltation and eternal lives are reserved for those couples who are not only married for time and all eternity (see D&C 131:2–4), but also who live in love and harmony, being equally yoked in their eternal roles. They are one.
Ephesians 5:33. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
Husbands are to love their wives even as Christ has loved the Church (see Eph. 5:25). Love translates into caring concern that serves others. Husbands should serve their wives and family even as Christ has served us. In reverencing their husbands, wives are involved in a reciprocating act—as each honors, respects, and treats the other with deference and kindness.
Moses 4:22. Thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.
A wife gives herself to her husband in righteousness. This act is one of turning one’s heart with affection to the mate. Both husband and wife participate in this selfless act of love.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Gordon B. Hinckley:
The most important decision of life is the decision concerning your companion. Choose prayerfully. And when you are married, be fiercely loyal one to another. Selfishness is the great destroyer of happy family life. I have this one suggestion to offer. If you will make your first concern the comfort, the well-being, and the happiness of your companion, sublimating any personal concern to that loftier goal, you will be happy, and your marriage will go on through eternity. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 328–29)
Harold B. Lee:
Remember that great love is built on great sacrifice and that a daily determination in each other to please in things that are right will build a sure foundation for a happy home. That determination for the welfare of each other must be mutual and not one-sided or selfish. Husband and wife must feel equal responsibilities and obligations to teach each other. Two of the things that today strike at the security of modern homes is that young husbands have never sensed their full obligation in supporting a family, and young wives have sidestepped the responsibility of settling down to the serious business of raising a family and of making a home. (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1996], 252)
James E. Faust:
In marriage, neither is superior; each has a different primary and divine responsibility. Chief among these responsibilities for wives is the calling of motherhood. I firmly believe that our dear, faithful sisters enjoy a special spiritual enrichment that is inherent in their natures. (Finding Light in a Dark World [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1995], 122)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are four ideas for women to consider in their role as wife:
1. Improve the inner reality.
● Elevate your vision—You are a partner with God in the creation. You, in concert with your husband, are the pinnacle of the vital process of bringing new life into the world. There is nothing to equal it, nothing to surpass it in its significance.
● Choose correct principles—Anchor to rock-solid principles of integrity, honor, selflessness, loyalty, service, trustworthiness, and love. Set aside any excessive allegiance to things that fade: fads, fashions, or momentary pleasures.
● Establish priorities—Remember that you are a wife. This must be your most important priority.
2. Foster positive actions that bring benefits to yourself, your spouse, and your children.
● Work toward long-term results—You can do more to bring harmony, peace, contentment, and joy into the world in your function as wife and mother than in any other role. Vision is required.
● Learn always—Learn continuously from the best books, through meaningful conversations with chosen role models, via positive media and Internet sources, and by taking workshops and courses, etc. Life is always changing, and wives must be ready for such dynamic lifestyles.
● Cultivate unity of purpose and action—The poet Homer put it this way: “The best thing in the world [is] a strong house held in serenity where man and wife agree.”
3. Strengthen your relationship.
● Foster dialogue—Communicate your needs and feelings frankly to your husband. Remember that sometimes the male ego prefers to remain aloof and self-contained. Help your husband to communicate freely.
● Be supportive of your husband in his occupation—Help him enhance his career as much as possible. If you must also help earn the living, then work toward a fair sharing of domestic responsibilities. This counsel applies to both husband and wife: Repress the tendency to nag or complain, for only hard feelings come from that type of behavior.
● Know the differences—Recognize that men have different needs—just as you do. Understanding will go a long way toward fostering unity and cooperation.
● Praise and honor your husband—As you encourage him, you will grow together, and share in each other’s successes.
4. Find common ground and common purpose. Have many goals in common with your spouse: health, companionship, spiritual growth, and leaving a legacy of honor and harmony for the children. Here are some of the mutually important things for husband and wife to keep in mind:
● Fidelity in all things—Even “harmless” flirtation with others can lead to adultery, which destroys families.
● Loyalty—Be loyal to and supportive of your husband.
● Selflessness—Think of him first, before yourself.
● Overcoming selfishness—Selfishness is the cause of virtually all marital discord. It is evidenced in the inability to communicate and reason together, leading to misunderstandings, unrealized expectations, and demanding behavior, among other things.
● Communication—Be willing to counsel together. Discuss all things relating to your marriage, your family, and your lives.
● Happiness—Channel and sublimate your efforts for the well-being and happiness of your husband.
● Togetherness—Do things together: dining, vacationing, fun activities, domestic chores—simply everything where possible. Take time to plan a fun vacation together.
● Empathy—If you practice empathy and understanding, then you will appreciate your husband. Gratitude will abound. Your attitudes toward each other will change, as will your behavior. If it’s important to your husband, it should be important to you.
● Service—Look for ways to serve each other and your children.
● Uniqueness—Recognize that each of you has unique roles in your marriage. Be understanding and supportive.
● Praise—Genuinely praise your sweetheart. Write him love notes. Give him sweet surprises.
● Privacy—Give him space, for friends, hobbies, etc.
● Affection—Be affectionate. Children need to know that you like to show affection to your husband and accept the same from him.
● Worship together—Search the scriptures together. Pray together. Genuinely seek spiritual growth with your husband. Nothing will add a more lasting glow to the relationship.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMESS
The following illustration, related by former general Relief Society president Sister Barbara B. Smith, shows how wives can uniquely support their husbands.
A Call to Action
Something of this relationship might be seen if I relate a conversation with a friend of mine. He said, “My wife and I decided to face the front of our home with rocks. So I called around and located a place where I could get them.
“I started to get into my truck when my wife called to me and said, ‘Let me go with you. I want to help you.’
“When we got to the place where the rocks were located, we found them on the top of a hill. I complained, ‘That’s going to be a terrible job to get those rocks down.’
“My wife said, ‘I’ll go up to the top of the hill and roll the rocks down to you and then you’ll just have to carry them over to the truck. How does that sound?’
“I thought that was a good idea,” he said. “I watched her climb to the top of the hill and disappear for a few minutes. Soon she called out, ‘Here comes the first rock. Here comes another one.’ Then she said, ‘Oh, this rock is a beauty. I hope this one won’t be too heavy for you to carry.’
“I said, ‘I’ll carry anything you roll down.’
“Then she said, ‘Look at this rock. It has real character. Here comes my favorite.’”
He said, “She actually had me waiting anxiously for each rock.” And then he said, “In this endeavor, as in many other of our projects together, she had given me not only the help I needed but a perspective that often eludes men.”
I would like to see all sisters . . . acting as [such] helpmeets. (Barbara B. Smith, “A Call to Action,” Ensign, May 1977, 90)
SUMMARY
Unfortunately, many individuals do not find fulfillment in their roles. Today’s society has shifted away from proven patterns in the definition of the roles of male and female—and much goodness and satisfaction has been lost in the transition. If each spouse could realize the importance of his or her unique position, then each could find fulfillment within the role of wife or husband. If things are not right, seek counsel from the Lord. If both husband and wife exercise faith in the strength of the Lord in righteousness, things will be better. Find happiness in your companionship. The wife should find joy in the success and achievement of her husband. Likewise, the husband should find joy in the success and achievement of his wife and say, with Shakespeare (in the play Julius Caesar): “Render me worthy of this noble wife.” Let us seek to find joy in being one in purpose, cause, and action. Let us fulfill our wedding vows with honor and covenant fidelity by being the best partner for our spouse.
♦
WISDOM
“We are all missionaries for the Lord. In His strength, we can use wisdom to enhance the cause of Zion by guiding others to come into the fold of Christ: “And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17). What is the message of the Lord’s missionaries? That wisdom flows unto the faithful and obedient through humble prayer, listening to the promptings of the Spirit, learning line upon line from the best sources of truth, serving others, visiting the House of the Lord, and accepting fully the blessings of grace and enlightenment from heaven. How can we all do better each day to magnify our calling as the Lord’s servants in wisdom and love? “
Wisdom is the ability to make good choices based on truth. Truth based on the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the truth on which we can build a foundation for making wise decisions and good choices. Those who continually make good choices are enlightened by the light of Christ and inspired by the Holy Ghost. As we live worthy of the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, we can learn wisdom, for the Holy Ghost will testify of all truth (see Moro. 10:5) and show us all things to do (see 2 Ne. 32:5).
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Proverbs 2:6. For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
Wisdom is a gift of the Lord through His Spirit (see 1 Cor. 12:8). The Lord has commanded us to seek the best gifts, for they allow us to bless the lives of others. When we seek for wisdom, we gain understanding of gospel principles, and we also find happiness (see Prov. 3:13). Wisdom is greater than riches because it brings so many blessings (see Prov. 8:11).
Matthew 7:24. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock.
Hearing and knowing is one thing, but wisdom requires action—doing things according to correct principles. We must not be just hearers of the word but should be wise doers of the word (see James 1:22). In so doing we build upon a sure foundation—our Savior Jesus Christ—and we will not fall (see Hel. 5:12).
1 Corinthians 3:19. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.
Secular learning and things of the world are not eternal verities. They change constantly, while the truth and wisdom of God is absolute and unchanging. Let us build our lives on gospel truths, take counsel from Heavenly Father, and not lean upon our own understanding (see 2 Ne. 9:28–29).
James 1:5. 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.
In order to learn the things of God, we must seek them out. Asking is a principle with a promise. God will give answers to our prayers just like He has done with Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Joseph Smith, and all of His other prophets. As we seek wisdom, we become rich as to the things of God, qualifying for His greatest gift, eternal life (see D&C 6:7). We are His children, and He has asked us to call upon His name in humility. If we do so, we will hear and see the things of God (see D&C 136:32) and receive blessings according to our faith.
Doctrine and Covenants 88:118. And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.
We should seek learning from all sources. Obviously, the scriptures are the best books, but there are other good books as well. As we lean upon the Spirit, we can discern between truth and error. The Lord counsels us that wisdom will help us overcome wickedness (see D&C 38:30). Even in our weakness, the Lord will make us wise if we follow Him (see D&C 124:1).
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Bruce R. McConkie:
That wisdom which leads to salvation comes from God by revelation. Every person on earth, in or out of the Church, can gain wisdom from the Lord, who is the source and font of all truth and righteousness. Those outside the Church who diligently seek will be led to the gospel of salvation where perfect wisdom resides; those in the Church, when they seek righteousness with all their hearts, will be led along the path of truth and revelation until they know all things and have all wisdom. (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1965–1973], 3:246)
Marvin J. Ashton:
As with most simple formulas, all of us must analyze our own lives and use wisdom and free agency as we apply the basic principles. Jesus said, “This is my gospel; and ye know the things that ye must do in my church; for the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do; for that which ye have seen me do even that shall ye do.” (3 Nephi 27:21.) The doing is always more difficult than the knowing. (Be of Good Cheer [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1987], 11)
Joseph Fielding Smith:
Intelligence, then, is more potent than knowledge. While there is no intelligence without knowledge, there is much knowledge without intelligent application. Pure intelligence is an attribute of God which will create in the heart of man a desire to come to the perfect knowledge of truth. He will therefore seek wisdom and knowledge, that he may have power; but all his efforts to know will be put forth to obtain glory, honor, and eternal life. (The Way to Perfection [Salt Lake City: Genealogical Society of Utah, 1949], 230)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
We need not look far in the world to know that “the wisdom of the wise has perished and that the understanding of the prudent has come to naught.” That wisdom for which the world should seek is the wisdom which comes from God. The only understanding that will save the world is divine understanding. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 500)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are some ideas to help us gain wisdom:
1. Seek truth and knowledge.
● Scriptures—Search the word of God to gain the knowledge upon which to base correct decisions.
● Discernment—Do not be swayed by the learning of man when it conflicts with gospel truths. Learn to distinguish between temporal and eternal truths.
● Faith—We learn not only by study, but by also faith (see D&C 88:118).
● Continual learning—Be easily entreated when to comes to following the Brethren.
● Standards—Once you have a set of standards on which to base your decisions, you are prepared to make good and wise choices.
2. Use your God-given reason to apply wisdom in decision making.
● Get the facts—A wise person collects all pertinent information and makes sure of its accuracy before making a decision. A wise person makes decisions calmly, not in haste or under duress, but in a reasoned, judicious manner.
● Look at all the options—Study the pros and cons of a certain decision. Make the best choice you can, and then seek confirmation.
3. Keep your mind open and your heart close to the Spirit.
● Seek wisdom out of the best books (see D&C 88:118)—Latter-day Saints do not have the monopoly on wisdom. Throughout the ages, the Lord has inspired good men and women, and many of these recorded their wisdom. Be discerning, but don’t be afraid to immerse yourself in the wisdom of good literature.
● The Spirit—Listen for the witness of the Spirit as to things being true or not.
● Be aware of your environment—Wisdom is knowing what’s going on around you, and how your choices will play into that. Recognizing the effects of your words and actions on others is a sign of wisdom.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMESS
Perspective is an important part of wisdom, as we see in this humorous poem by John Godfrey Saxe.
The Blind Men and the Elephant
It was six men of Indostan
To learning much inclined,
Who went to see the elephant
(Though all of them were blind),
That each by observation
Might satisfy his mind.
The First approached the elephant,
And, happening to fall
Against his broad and sturdy side,
At once began to bawl:
“God bless me! but the elephant
Is nothing but a wall!”
The Second, feeling of the tusk,
Cried: “Ho! what have we here
So very round and smooth and sharp?
To me ’tis mighty clear
This wonder of an elephant
Is very like a spear!”
The Third approached the animal,
And, happening to take
The squirming trunk within his hands,
Thus boldly up and spake:
“I see,” quoth he, “the elephant
Is very like a snake!”
The Fourth reached out his eager hand,
And felt about the knee:
“What most this wondrous beast is like
Is mighty plain,” quoth he;
“’Tis clear enough the elephant
Is very like a tree.”
The Fifth, who chanced to touch the ear,
Said: “E’en the blindest man
Can tell what this resembles most;
Deny the fact who can,
This marvel of an elephant
Is very like a fan!”
The Sixth no sooner had begun
About the beast to grope,
Than, seizing on the swinging tail
That fell within his scope,
“I see,” quoth he, “the elephant
Is very like a rope!”
And so these men of Indostan
Disputed loud and long,
Each in his own opinion
Exceeding stiff and strong,
Though each was partly in the right,
And all were in the wrong!
So, oft in theologic wars
The disputants, I ween,
Rail on in utter ignorance
Of what each other mean,
And prate about an elephant
Not one of them has seen!
(John Godfrey Saxe in Best Loved Poems of the LDS People, Jay A. Parry, Jack M. Lyon, and Linda Ririe Gundry eds. [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 196–98)
SUMMARY
Each of us can develop wisdom by gaining knowledge based on truth and exercising our judgment based on sound principles. When we follow the light of Christ and the Holy Spirit, we will have the power to make wise decisions. Many great people in the past, regardless of the situations facing them, made wise choices that made a difference in their lives and in the lives of many of others. The consequences of wise decisions enrich our lives every day.
♦
WORD OF WISDOM
“The “bread of life” (John 6:35, 48) and the “living water” (John 4:10) constitute the healing sustenance that comes through faith, repentance, baptism by emersion, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. That saving kind of wisdom is also echoed in the Lord’s counsel for this modern generation to use care in our temporal intake for the sustaining of life and strength. For those who follow the Lord’s counsel in their ongoing dieting patterns, great blessings can flow unto them in the form of better health and wisdom: “And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures; And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint” (D&C 89:19–20). How can we as the Lord’s ambassadors guide our listeners to follow the Lord’s word of wisdom by coming into His fold in faith and humility and then living lives of enduring health—both spiritual as well as well as temporal?”
The Word of Wisdom, Doctrine and Covenants Section 89, is a principle with a promise—a law with blessings predicated on our obedience. It is primarily concerned with dietary matters—what we should or should not eat or drink—as well as the use of tobacco. The law also extends logically to the use of harmful and addictive drugs (see Howard W. Hunter, “Let Lives Reflect the Gospel,” Church News, December 17, 1994). There are other important precepts to follow in regard to good health that are not included in the Word of Wisdom. For example, in the Word of Wisdom, the Lord does not specifically mention dietary extremes, but He does counsel that we are to do things “with prudence and thanksgiving” (v. 11). With all the extremes in diet and “health-promoting” trends, it is reassuring that the Lord has given us a tried and proven health plan.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Romans 14:17. For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
The Mosaic law, as recorded in Leviticus, lists many dietary restrictions. In this admonition to the Roman Saints, however, Paul teaches that there is more to religion and spirituality than simply what you eat and drink. The Lord suggested the same thing in the New Testament (see Mark 7:18–19). We must be careful that we don’t become extremists in regard to the Word of Wisdom.
1 Corinthians 3:17. If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
We are temples of God where His Spirit may dwell. Therefore, we should seek to make our bodies as pure and clean as possible. The Lord has told us how to do this in His Word of Wisdom.
Doctrine and Covenants 89:4. Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation.
In our day, conspiring individuals have deceived the public in regard to tobacco. Such purveyors are now paying billions of dollars in damages. However, they can never replace the lives ruined or cut short by their heinous acts of greed. Likewise, many harmful substances are offered to us as pleasurable pastimes. The Lord knew the consequences of partaking of these harmful things and He forewarned us in the Word of Wisdom.
Doctrine and Covenants 89:7–9. And, again, strong drinks are not for the belly, but for the washing of your bodies. And again, tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man, but is an herb for bruises and all sick cattle, to be used with judgment and skill. And again, hot drinks are not for the body or belly.
Alcohol and hot drinks (tea and coffee) are addictive and cause nothing but harm to our bodies. Vaughn J. Featherstone has reminded us: “The leaders of the Church have advised, and we do now specifically advise, against use of any drink containing harmful habit-forming drugs” (in Conference Report, April 1975, 102). We should seek to be free from dependence on anything that is harmful to the body.
Doctrine and Covenants 89:12–13. Yea, flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless they are to be used sparingly; And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine.
Meat is ordained of God for the use of man and is beneficial to us if used in moderation. However, as recent medical research attests, too much meat is detrimental to our health. Let us use prudence and wisdom, not extreme measures, in regard to dietary habits.
Doctrine and Covenants 89:18–21. And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures; And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen.
The blessings of keeping the Word of Wisdom are clear: health, long life, wisdom and hidden knowledge, strength and stamina, and protection from many life-threatening illnesses. We can claim these blessings through simple obedience.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Joseph Smith:
No official member in this Church is worthy to hold an office, after having the Word of Wisdom properly taught him, and he, the official member, neglecting to comply with or obey it. (History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2:35)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
One appreciates the incomparable wisdom of the Lord who in 1833 in a rural town on the frontier of America spoke these simple and encompassing words: “ . . . tobacco . . . is not good for man, . . .” (D&C 89:8.)
He did not say that one would get lung cancer, develop heart or respiratory problems if he smoked. He did not produce mountainous statistics or recite case histories. He simply declared that “ . . . tobacco . . . is not good for man, . . .”
That declaration was given as “a principle with promise,” (V. 3.)
It was given as a warning and a forewarning, “in consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, . . .” (V. 4.) How aptly descriptive these words are in light of what we today observe. . . .
Can there be any doubt that it is a Word of Wisdom when great forces, with millions of dollars at their command and some of the cleverest minds in the art of advertising, promote that which sober men of science also now say “is not good for man”?
One cannot read the testimony without recognizing that true freedom lies in obedience to the counsels of God. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 699–700)
Joseph F. Smith:
Now, I do wish with all my heart—not because I say it, but because it is written in the word of the Lord—that you would give heed to this Word of Wisdom. It was given unto us “not by commandment”; but by the word of President Brigham Young, it was made a commandment unto the Saints. It is written here for our guidance, for our happiness and advancement in every principle that pertains to the kingdom of God, in time and throughout eternity, and I pray you to observe it. It will do you good; it will ennoble your souls; it will free your thoughts and your hearts from the spirit of destruction; it will make you feel like God, who sustains even the sparrow, that it does not fall to the ground without his notice; it will bring you nearer to the similitude of the Son of God, the Savior of the world, who healed the sick, who made the lame to leap for joy, who restored hearing to the deaf and sight to the blind, who distributed peace, joy, and comfort to all with whom he came in contact, and who cured and destroyed nothing, save it was the barren fig tree, and that was to show forth his power more than anything else. (Gospel Doctrine: Selections from the Sermons and Writings of Joseph F. Smith, comp. John A. Widtsoe [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1939], 365)
The First Presidency:
That in these dire days, we may, each in his own place, enjoy the abundant physical blessings of the righteous life, we call upon all true Latter-day Saints, in or out of office, to keep this law of health,—completely to give up drink, to quit using tobacco, which all too often leads to drink, to abandon hot drinks and the use of harmful drugs, and otherwise to observe the Word of Wisdom. We urge the Saints to quit trifling with this law and so to live it that we may claim its promises. (Messages of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 6 vols., comp. James R. Clark (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1965–75), 6:173)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are some ideas to help us more faithfully keep the Word of Wisdom:
1. Set goals and make plans.
● Menu planning—Organize your meals to include the foods recommended and specified in the Word of Wisdom. Remember that extreme measures are not part of the Lord’s law of health.
● Commitment—Make a commitment to abstain from alcohol, tobacco, hot drinks (tea and coffee), other harmful drinks, and illegal drugs.
● Counsel—If struggle with the Word of Wisdom, seek counsel from your Church leaders, ask for a blessing, seek medical help, and do everything within your power to overcome the habit.
2. Consider all the blessings.
● Health—As you follow the Word of Wisdom, you will be healthier in every respect: physically, mentally (a clear mind), emotionally (self-control), and spiritually (blessings of obedience).
● Clean temples (you are a temple)—Physical purity enables one to receive the inspiration of the Lord.
● Treasures—”And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures” (D&C 89:19–20).
● Savings—By avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and similar harmful substances, you can have significant monetary savings over a lifetime.
● Clarity of thought and judgment—You are in control of yourself when not under the influence of alcohol and other harmful drugs. In addition, when your body is healthy, you are less stressed and better able to function in your thinking.
● Being a self-starter—You are not dependent on any harmful thing for your strength or motivation.
● Temple—Keeping the Word of Wisdom is a requirement for a temple recommend.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
The following personal story illustrates an additional blessing that came from following the Word of Wisdom—respect for adhering to one’s beliefs.
I Brewed It Myself
As a graduate student at the Johns Hopkins University many years ago, I learned that keeping the honor of God and the honor of the world separate is much less challenging if you have wise allies looking out for you. My senior faculty advisor, Dr. Harold Jantz, world renowned in his discipline, was also a careful student of human affairs and human values. He regularly convened seminars in his home, where he served the graduate students coffee and tea. At my first such event, he served all of my colleagues their coffee or tea, and then turned to me and handed me a cup of herbal tea. “It’s rose-hips,” he said with a friendly twinkle in his eyes. “I brewed it myself from my rose plants. I know you don’t drink coffee or regular tea, so this is for you.” His generosity was matched only by his magnanimous respect for my values and standards. Thereafter, at each such occasion, he hospitably prepared and served me a portion of delicious and nutritious rose-hips tea. With such a hospitable host and mentor, I couldn’t have compromised my values—even if I had wanted to! It was a small thing, but it had great implications. Not only was my obedience at stake, but others’ judgments of the Church. Members of the Church never know how many eyes are watching, nor how many hearts can be influenced for good when they strive in all diligence to keep the commandments.
—Richard J. Allen
SUMMARY
All counsel from the Lord is a commandment to the righteous (see Jacob 4:10). Keeping the Word of Wisdom is a requirement if we desire to serve in the temple. Furthermore, the prophets have made it clear that it is a commandment for us to obey the Word of Wisdom. With the help of the Lord, we can keep the Word of Wisdom. He will provide a way for us if we have the desire, exercise our faith, and work diligently to follow His law of health (see 1 Ne. 3:7; 17:2–3; Alma 26:11–12; Ether 12:27; Moro. 7:33).
♦
WORK
“What is the work and glory of our Master? It is “to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). And what is our work in this same context? “Behold, this is your work, to keep my commandments, yea, with all your might, mind and strength” (D&C 11:20). Honorable work of this nature is often characterized in the scriptures as “good works” (see also the entry “Good Works” in this collection). How can we all make “good works” the center piece of our service unto the Lord and His children? How can we apply our knowledge of the truth in greater devotion according to the counsel of the Lord: “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them” (John 13:17; see also 2 Nephi 25:23; Mosiah 4:10)?”
Work is the price of success and it is essential in the building of character. Work protects us from the consequences of idleness, and it is the standard of excellence in every field. From the farmers of yesterday to the superstar athletes of today, the work ethic is the difference between the success and failure. Great people and super performers understand the value of working hard and working smart.
In the early years of this country, most people lived in rural farming communities. Work was simply a part of life—a large part. With our modern cities and affluence, it seems as though many youth today do not enjoy the blessing of work in their lives. What can be done to address this problem? It is up to parents and to leaders of the Church, community, and nation to show a better example.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Genesis 3:18–19. Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.
From the very beginning, work was set forth by the Lord as a remedy for sin. The Lord commanded Adam to work (Moses 5:1) for his own benefit and growth.
2 Nephi 5:17. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did cause my people to be industrious, and to labor with their hands.
Physical labor is good for us. When we are industrious, we are busy, diligent, steady, and tireless. These attributes serve us well in all facets of life. Idleness, a tool of the devil, will not be a curse to anyone that is industrious.
Doctrine and Covenants 58:27. Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.
The Lord is pleased with the willing worker—one who does not require continual prodding. A work ethic learned early can carry us throughout our lives. In raising children, it is paramount to teach them the value of work.
Doctrine and Covenants 75:29. Let every man be diligent in all things. And the idler shall not have place in the church, except he repent and mend his ways.
The Lord has counseled us clearly about our work ethic: We must be diligent (work hard) in all things. There will never be a substitute for work. Many of our blessings are predicated on the principle of work.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
David B. Haight:
They (the early saints) had a majestic dream of great things and lofty ideals: of homes and gardens, temples and meetinghouses, schools and universities. It would take work—hard work—and everyone’s best efforts to make it happen. They became experienced colonizers and benefactors to our nation and to humanity. Many of us are a product of that early, inspired colonization—its teachings and blessings of the value of hard work coupled with desire and faith for a better way of life. (A Light unto the World [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 138.)
Ezra Taft Benson:
Work hard educationally and in your vocation. Put your trust in the Lord, have faith, and it will work out. The Lord never gives a commandment without providing the means to accomplish it. (See 1 Ne. 3:7.) (Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1990], 53.)
One of the greatest secrets of missionary work is work. If a missionary works, he will get the Spirit; if he gets the Spirit, he will teach by the Spirit; if he teaches by the Spirit, he will touch the hearts of the people, and he will be happy. Then there will be no homesickness nor worrying about families, for all time and talents and interests are centered on the work of the ministry. Work, work, work—there is no satisfactory substitute, especially in missionary work. (Come unto Christ [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1983], 95.)
Joseph B. Wirthlin:
The foundation of self-reliance is hard work. Parents should teach their children that work is the prerequisite to achievement and success in every worthwhile endeavor. Children of legal age should secure productive employment and begin to move away from dependence on parents. None of us should expect others to provide for us anything that we can provide for ourselves. (Finding Peace in Our Lives [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1995], 44.)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are five things to consider to improve your work ethic and to help others learn to work:
1. How you view your work is just as important for the outcome as your performance.
● See work as a natural law—Look at work as a key part of the natural law of consequences. If you desire certain outcomes, rewards, and benefits, then you must work to obtain them. In this way, work is not enslaving, but liberating, for it is the doorway to the freedoms you desire.
● See work as something you do one day at a time—Don’t work hard all your life—just today, and each day. Keep your eye on the goal, but face your tasks one day at a time.
● See work as the fulcrum of self-confidence—The inner spirit always feels good after a good, hard day of work.
● See yourself as the “boss”—Mentally fire your boss and hire another one—you. Reframe your work situation so that you are working for yourself. No matter who is above you in the chain of command, work for yourself. Build quality into your work, because it is your work.
2. Work smart, as well as hard.
● Work toward meaningful goals—Work smart at those things that will bring you closer to your goals each day. Henry David Thoreau acknowledged the need for meaningfulness when he said, “It is not enough to be busy . . . the question is: what are we busy about?”
● Know your place of importance—Understand how you fit in with the overall vision. People work better when they understand their role in a project.
● Focus on effectiveness and productivity—Understand the parameters of your work so you will be not only efficient, but effective. As part of your work ethic, always make your best effort at everything you do.
● Concentrate—When working diligently, your mind is focused productively on the task, which is crucial for optimum performance.
3. Choose to do what you love, and love what you do.
● Make wise career decisions—Seek a career that you find stimulating and rewarding—or make it so by bringing the right attitude to the workplace. “Blessed is he who has found his work; let him ask no other blessedness. He has a work, a life purpose; he has found it and will follow it,” observed Thomas Carlyle.
● Put joy to work—Transform any unpleasant but necessary task by investing joy in it. No matter what the job—washing dishes, mopping floors, changing diapers, doing routine tasks for long hours—you can radiate joy to others in spite of the challenging circumstances.
4. Govern your life with balance.
● Have fun—Set a good example for your family by working hard, but put balance in your life so that you also have fun with them and enjoy life. The Lord Himself commands us to rest from our work at times (see Ex. 20:8–9).
● Have a diversified “work portfolio”—Spread your work ethic evenly over all the important facets of your life: personal development, career, family, community service, and spiritual development.
● Avoid extremes—Be careful not to be obsessed with work. Some people actually become so attached to their work that all other things in life are put on hold, and this is not wise.
5. Teach others the principles of work.
● Bless lives by teaching correct principles—Teach your family that desirable rewards require considerable effort. Don’t give them the world; rather, show them how to earn it.
● Create meaningful opportunities—Give children opportunities to work. It is your responsibility to help them learn to work.
● Praise often—People always work better with praise and appreciation.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
The following illustration describes how a work ethic instilled at a young age can be a blessing throughout life.
A Treasure in the Weeds
The bus ride home was about eight miles. I was a young fifth-grader in Central Elementary School. I was always excited to tell my mother about the day at school. I would jump off the bus and run the 100 yards-plus up the farm road to the house. My mother would be waiting. She gave me homemade bread, butter, jam, and a big glass of milk for my after-school treat. I would tell her about my school day and then do my chores. Then I would hope to play a while before dark. But invariably my father would say—or at least it seemed invariably so—“Ed, go pull burdock.” Burdock was a large leafy plant with “burs” that would stick to your clothes. There were thousands of these plants growing wild on our farm. I could never pull all the weeds. I didn’t like to weed. I hate to weed to this day—and I’m a senior citizen. So I would try to run and play before my Dad could find me. It was to no avail. He always found me, and he said, “Go pull burdock, Ed.” So I did. Farm life was great except it always seemed like we had to work.
We eventually moved from the farm. My father passed away almost two years later. Living in the city was different, but there was still work—though fortunately not so many weeds. My angel mother raised our family all alone. And she was the perfect mother in every way. Life went on. I got married. One day when I was thinking about life and the growth that I had experienced, I came to a great realization: I owed to my father much of my success in life—whether on the athletic field, in schoolwork, or in life’s experiences. It was the ability to work hard, never to give up, and to finish the job—now—that had made the difference in my life. I learned to work as a young boy. It was as simple as the order to pull burdock, but it truly made all the difference. In today’s world, the ethic of work has almost become a forgotten virtue for the youth. Idleness will eventually destroy the individual, while work will bring out the virtue of character and will result in success in life.
—Ed J. Pinegar
SUMMARY
Thomas Jefferson observed: “I’m a great believer in luck, and I find that the harder I work the more I have of it.” The ethic of work truly needs to be re-established in our society, where the problem of idleness is manifest all around us. The blessings of work must become better understood by all, especially our youth. Those who learn the work ethic early tend to be outstanding students and good employees. The great welfare program of the Church is centered on re-enthroning the principle of work and self-sufficiency among the Saints. Work is key to success and accomplishment in all human endeavor, and “the laborer is worthy of his hire” (D&C 31:5; 84:79; 106:3; Luke 10:7). Our Savior counsels: “Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness; . . . And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward” (D&C 58:27–28).
♦
WORSHIP
“As missionaries, we invite our listeners to receive and follow the word of the Lord on behalf of His children: “Behold, it is my will, that all they who call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting gospel, should gather together, and stand in holy places” (D&C 101:22). Holy places are homes of purity, congregations of faith, and temples of glory. We also ensure our listeners that true worship is a manner of righteous living carried out at all times and in all situations, whether we are alone or with others, so that our hearts will continually be filled with songs of praise and prayers of faith and testimony.”
To worship God is to show Him reverence, honor, devotion, and love. True worship is more than just a feeling or attitude—it is accompanied by an offering of self and service. Unfortunately, we are often inclined to worship things of the world rather than our Heavenly Father and our Savior. In caring more about things than we do about God, we eventually forget God, the source of life and all our blessings. The commandments are clear: “Ye cannot serve God and mammon” (Matt. 6:24); “Thou shalt have no other gods before me” (Ex. 20:3); “Worship God, in whatsoever place ye may be in, in spirit and in truth” (Alma 34:38). In another clear example, we read: “Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment” (Matt. 22:36–38). In short, we are to worship God with our attention single to His glory (D&C 82:19; 88:67).
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Exodus 20:3–5, 7–8. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them. . . . Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
The Ten Commandments have never been revoked or changed, and they are still in effect. So important is it to our Heavenly Father that we honor Him and acknowledge our relationship to Him that the first four of His commands have to do with worshipping Him. The first commandment, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me,” means that no other thing or entity should be put ahead of, or in place of, our Heavenly Father. We are to live a life focused upon our Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ, keeping the commandments they have given us.
John 4:23–24. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
We should worship God the Father at all times, not just when we are in church or in the temple. When we truly worship Him, we acknowledge and keep His laws and commandments, and we acknowledge His Son and the glorious Atonement.
2 Nephi 9:37. Yea, wo unto those that worship idols, for the devil of all devils delighteth in them.
Anything other than God, His Church, and His law is of the world, whether it be an image or a material thing such as position, title, station, power, or money. All worldly things are false gods. It is so easy to become obsessed with material things that we must always be on guard and not forget our God due to the ease of the way (see Hel. 12:2–3).
2 Nephi 25:29. And now behold, I say unto you that the right way is to believe in Christ, and deny him not; and Christ is the Holy One of Israel; wherefore ye must bow down before him, and worship him with all your might, mind, and strength, and your whole soul; and if ye do this ye shall in nowise be cast out.
We worship our Savior as well as God the Father. This does not take away from our complete adoration for, and worship of, our Heavenly Father, for they are one in purpose. This scriptural passage helps us realize the important role of Jesus Christ—Jehovah—the God of the Old Testament and the Savior of the world.
Alma 32:9–11. Behold thy brother hath said, What shall we do?—for we are cast out of our synagogues, that we cannot worship our God. Behold I say unto you, do ye suppose that ye cannot worship God save it be in your synagogues only? And moreover, I would ask, do ye suppose that ye must not worship God only once in a week?
Alma teaches a profound truth by explaining that we should worship God at all times and not just in church or on the Sabbath day. Daily worship of Heavenly Father consists of prayer, scripture study, pondering and meditating, and, above all, living the gospel of Jesus Christ by seeking to bless our fellowmen.
Alma 33:3. Do ye remember to have read what Zenos, the prophet of old, has said concerning prayer or worship?
Prayer is the most personal form of worship. In prayer, we acknowledge our relationship with Heavenly Father—that we are His children. The phrase, “We ask Thee” implies that we recognize our total dependence upon Him. When we submit ourselves in humble prayer to our God, we worship Him, seeking to do His will and keep His commandments.
Alma 34:38. That ye contend no more against the Holy Ghost, but that ye receive it, and take upon you the name of Christ; that ye humble yourselves even to the dust, and worship God, in whatsoever place ye may be in, in spirit and in truth; and that ye live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies and blessings which he doth bestow upon you.
We should follow Amulek’s advice to the Zoramites to live daily in thanksgiving to our God. Gratitude is a transcendent principle in worshipping God, for He truly gives us everything.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Gordon B. Hinckley:
Strange as it seems, we alone, among all the great organizations that worship God, have a true description and a true definition of him. The experience of Joseph Smith in a few moments in the grove on a spring day in 1820, brought more light and knowledge and understanding of the personality and reality and substance of God and his Beloved Son than men had arrived at during centuries of speculation. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 236.)
Neal A. Maxwell:
Not only are we urged to worship God but, astoundingly, we are instructed to become like Him! (Matthew 5:48; 3 Nephi 12:48; 27:27.) (Meek and Lowly [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1987], ix.)
As we worship God with all of our mind, soul, and strength we move from appreciation to adoration and on to emulation. Our minds are involved in studying and pondering. Our souls are extended in service. Finally we reach a consecration of all things. (Men and Women of Christ [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1991], 102.)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are eight suggestions for making our worship more meaningful:
1. Seek to understand Deity. We should make knowing and worshiping God one of our highest goals. The word “worship” comes from two Old English words, weorth (worth) and –scipe (-ship). The obvious implication is that we respond with a worshipful attitude when considering something of immense worth. Who could be of more worth to us than the Being who created the universe, gave us life, sustains us from moment to moment, and laid the foundation for our unlimited progress based on our choices?
2. Cultivate a spirit of reverence. Once we gain a knowledge of the nature and character of God, we will have a desire to worship Him and hold Him in great reverence. We should recognize our utter dependence upon Deity—our nothingness when compared with Him, and yet our divine destiny as children of God, created in His image, to be like Him. Humility and reverence are not groveling; they are a quiet, worshipful attitude of thanksgiving for blessings received, and a sincere commitment to be more like the Creator.
3. Worship more devoutly within the family. With gratitude and reverence for God taking root in our souls, our attitude toward Him and His children will change. We will want to obey Him and we will want to bless His children. Find common purpose with loved ones. There is no more fulfilling context for family life than a mutual appreciation for moral good, togetherness, health and vitality, gratitude for blessings, and sincere worship. “Worshipping together generates worth, leverages goodness, and magnifies the light of love” (Anonymous).
4. Expand worship into everyday behavior. With an attitude of love towards God, we will change our everyday behavior. We will want to keep His commandments, and we will want to live a righteous and moral life. An important preparation for authentic worship is to cleanse oneself of the cankerous malaise of hate, envy, jealousy, holding grudges, and designing ill against one’s fellow beings.
5. Learn to pray. As we proceed along this worshipful path, we will have a desire to communicate with God, to pray more frequently. Prayer is the purest form of worship. Listen to the Spirit’s promptings to pray always.
6. Seek after spiritual things. In our prayers, we should seek to know God’s will and pray for strength to do it. We can also seek for wisdom, comfort, assistance, the easing of our burdens, and a myriad of other blessings.
7. Make enduring gratitude a founding principle in your life. When we truly worship God, we will thank Him for all things. In the wonderful book entitled The Hiding Place, Corrie Ten Boom expresses gratitude even for fleas, for fleas became a protector for her and others against Nazi guards.
8. Sense your own divine nature. As we communicate with God through prayer, we will realize more fully that He is our Father and we are His children. If we truly worship God, we will follow His direction and enjoy life here and hereafter. Thomas Carlyle said that “Worship is transcendent wonder.”
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
Using a personal story, S. Michael Wilcox explains how true worship is imitation and how we can be lifted by the Lord as we worship Him.
True Worship
We must learn what it means to truly worship God. My six-year-old son taught me the meaning of worship one day while I was preparing a lesson. He was playing when he noticed that I was underlining my scriptures. He dropped his toys, ran into his room, and returned with his own copies of the scriptures. He lay beside me on the bed, duplicating my exact position, and opened his scriptures.
During the next half hour I was aware that he was underlining with my colored pencils. When I looked up, he showed me his work. Somehow he had found the page I was working on. There in his own book was an exact replica of my own work. He had highlighted the same words in the same colors. My arrows, lines, and numbers were there. He had even duplicated my marginal notes until his large handwriting forced him to stop. Apologetically and almost in tears, he said: “My lines aren’t straight like yours.”
This small incident helped me see a greater principle: true worship is imitation. It happens when we drop our worldly toys, study deeply the Savior’s life, and try to imitate the tiniest details of his character. In doing so, we also imitate the Father. Our lives are not sin-free as his, but the Atonement’s power is sufficient if our love and effort are sincere and deep. The eventual result of our worship will be godhood, not to mention a happier, more stable society here and now.
Becoming like God demands effort and sacrifice, but the Lord promises his constant help. To ancient Israel he said: “Hearken unto me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, which are borne by me from the belly, which are carried from the womb:
“And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.
“To whom will ye liken me, and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be like?” (Isa. 46:3–5.)
We can worship the gods of the world and bear them like a burden, or we can be lifted and carried by the Lord from birth to the grave. (S. Michael Wilcox, “No Other Gods before Me,” Ensign, January 1994, 22.)
SUMMARY
God-fearing people—those who show reverence, those who worship their God—live with hope. Life has more meaning for those who trust in God and who make Christlike behavior their standard. Because earth life is a proving ground prior to immortality, and because there is opposition in all things, we must use our moral agency to make choices. These choices can affect all mankind for good or ill, and we will be accountable to God for our actions. Our time on earth is the time to prepare to meet our God and to learn to worship and obey Him.
♦
ZION
“The term “Zion” evokes many thoughts and feelings in the hearts of the followers of Christ. Zion is a place, an institution, a state of mind, a noble destination, a people, a vision of perfection, an abode of God, and an emblem for the state of being to which the Saints of God aspire—a state of being representing purity, nobility, conquest over sin, togetherness with loved ones, and closeness to God. “Therefore, verily, thus saith the Lord, let Zion rejoice, for this is Zion—THE PURE IN HEART” (D&C 97:21). Zion is a place of harmony and togetherness: “And the Lord called his people ZION, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them” (Moses 7:18). How can we as the Lord’s messengers and missionaries provide an inspiring witness to our listeners that a place awaits them in Zion where they may join with the Saints to dwell in peace and comfort forever?”
The Lord calls His people Zion. Specifically, He called Enoch’s city Zion because the Saints were righteous, were of one heart and mind, and had no poor among them (see Moses 7:18). To be a Zion people we must be pure in heart (see D&C 97:21). Our affections, our decisions, and the very center of our being are said to be in our heart, for as a man “thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Prov. 23:7). A broken heart and a contrite spirit is our offering to the Lord that makes the Atonement efficacious in our lives and enables us to become pure in heart. As we treat the subject of Zion, we will deal primarily with Zion as a people rather than a place. Our goal as a Church and as a community of Saints should be to become a Zion people—pure in heart. We should seek to bring forth and build up the cause of Zion all the days of our lives.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
1 Nephi 13:37. And blessed are they who shall seek to bring forth my Zion at that day, for they shall have the gift and the power of the Holy Ghost; and if they endure unto the end they shall be lifted up at the last day, and shall be saved in the everlasting kingdom of the Lamb.
When we help others come unto Christ and receive the blessings of exaltation, we are working for the cause of Zion. As we do this, we are blessed with the Holy Ghost, who will show us all things we need to do (see 2 Ne. 32:5). We should commit to endure to the end so that we and our brothers and sisters can enjoy all the blessings our Heavenly Father has in store for us.
2 Nephi 26:31. But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish.
Church service is a labor of love that we do because we love God, our Savior, and our fellowmen. We seek the glory of God rather than riches and glory of man. When we seek to bring forth the cause of Zion, we will be made rich, for we shall have eternal life (see D&C 6:6–7).
3 Nephi 12:8. And blessed are all the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Zion is composed of the pure in heart. Purity of heart indicates that our intentions and behavior, as well as our affections towards God, reflect an obedient and righteous spirit. When we have a change of heart, we become pure and receive the blessings of the Spirit, with the promise of someday being in the presence of God.
Doctrine and Covenants 97:21. Therefore, verily, thus saith the Lord, let Zion rejoice, for this is Zion—the pure in heart; therefore, let Zion rejoice, while all the wicked shall mourn.
We create a Zion for ourselves when we are pure in heart. When we, as a group of Saints, are pure in heart, we create a Zion community. This is what the Lord wants—to bring forth a Zion people, His people, reflecting purity and righteousness.
Doctrine and Covenants 105:5. And Zion cannot be built up unless it is by the principles of the law of the celestial kingdom; otherwise I cannot receive her unto myself.
The Saints of Zion, the pure in heart, understand and practice the law of the celestial kingdom. The Sermon on the Mount (in Jerusalem) and the Sermon at the Temple (in Bountiful during the visit of the resurrected Savior) contain the celestial law. These are the principles and commandments that will help us, through the Atonement, to become perfected and to become like our Savior Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father (see 3 Ne. 12:48). It is imperative to spiritual perfection that we understand and live the principles and commandments of our Savior.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Ezra Taft Benson:
Only a Zion people can bring in a Zion society. And as the Zion people increase, so we will be able to incorporate more of the principles of Zion until we have a people prepared to receive the Lord. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 123–24.)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
If we are to build that Zion of which the prophets have spoken and of which the Lord has given mighty promise, we must set aside our consuming selfishness. We must rise above our love for comfort and ease, and in the very process of effort and struggle, even in our extremity, we shall become better acquainted with our God. . . .
Our forebears dreamed of Zion. “Come to Zion,” they said. “Even if you have to walk all the way. Come to Zion. Leave Babylon and gather to the mountains of Ephraim.” No one can read the words of Brigham Young, John Taylor, or Wilford Woodruff without knowing that they thought of these mountain valleys as a great gathering place for people of one heart and one mind and one faith, a place where the mountain of the Lord’s house should be established in the tops of the mountains and where all nations would flow unto it. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 725–26.)
John Taylor:
When Zion descends from above, Zion will also ascend from beneath, and be prepared to associate with those from above. The people will be so perfected and purified, ennobled, exalted, and dignified in their feelings and so truly humble and most worthy, virtuous and intelligent that they will be fit, when caught up, to associate with that Zion that shall come down from God out of heaven. (As quoted in Doctrines of the Book of Mormon: 1991 Sperry Symposium on the Book of Mormon [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1992], 76.)
Joseph F. Smith:
This should be the condition of the people of Zion. Every individual should be in a position to add something to the wealth of the whole. Everyone should be increasing, improving, and advancing in some way, and accomplishing something for his or her good and for the good of the whole. (Conference Report, October 1898, 23)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are some doctrines and principles to help us understand how to become a Zion people:
1. Acquire the attributes of a pure heart.
● Love—Motives should be founded on love for others rather than selfish concerns.
● Desires—Desires should be to serve and build up our fellowmen.
● Thoughts—Thoughts should be upon wholesome and righteous ideas. Remember that thoughts dwelled upon become desires, which, if encouraged, result in action.
● Attitudes—Attitudes should be positive and full of hope.
● Repentance—Repentance is crucial to becoming pure in heart. Repentance requires a broken heart and a contrite spirit so that our hearts can be made pure through the Savior’s Atonement. As we repent, the Holy Ghost sanctifies us and we become clean and pure.
● Humility—When we are humble, we recognize our dependence upon our Savior and our Heavenly Father. Humility—being submissive and easily entreated—allows our hearts to become soft and pure.
2. Learn that Zion people seek to bring forth the cause of Zion.
● The cause of Zion—Zion’s cause is to build up the kingdom of God and preach the gospel to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.
● A personal quest—Each individual working toward Zion should have a personal quest to become pure in heart.
● The example of the Redeemer—All true Saints of Zion attempt to live a Christlike life by serving their fellowmen and helping them come unto Christ.
● Blessing others—Everyone should seek personal improvement and by so doing bless those around them.
3. Create a Zion family as the basic unit for a Zion society.
● Teach your family the concept of Zion—Teach your children to become pure in heart and to help others to do likewise.
● The celestial law—Help your children understand the celestial law as set forth in the teachings of our Savior.
● Example—Set an example for your family of one possessed with a pure heart, both in motives and actions.
● Missionary spirit—As individuals and as families, be missionary-minded for the living and the dead.
● Unity—Seek to be “one” as a family. Unity brings peace and the Spirit to the family.
4. Receive the blessings of a Zion people.
● Eternal life—If we become a Zion people, we shall receive the blessings of eternal life (see D&C 6:7).
● Zion fellowship—When Zion comes down from above, we—if we are a Zion people—will be righteous and worthy of their association (see John Taylor, in Journal of Discourses [London: Latter-day Saints’ Book Depot, 1854–86], 10:147).
● Happiness—As a Zion people, we will be happy, for we will have the love of God in our hearts. There will be no envyings, strifes, tumults, whoredoms, lyings, murders, or any manner of lasciviousness (see 4 Ne. 1:15–16). “Prophets of God have been concerned continuously with the establishment of a righteous people of Zion, a social condition among men where justice, mercy, peace, and good will may prevail” (Lowell L. Bennion, The Best of Lowell L. Bennion: Selected Writings 1928–1988, ed. Eugene England [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1988], 187).
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
Heidi S. Swinton uses the examples of various pioneers to demonstrate the faith of those seeking to establish Zion.
Come to Zion
“Come to Zion” was the gathering call to the Saints in the early days of the Church. And come they did, from England and neighboring European nations, from Nauvoo and Winter Quarters. Some crossed oceans, most journeyed across the plains, and they settled in the Salt Lake Valley and a host of other communities throughout the sprawling territory of Deseret. That pioneer spirit—their belief in the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ and their desire to live it in its fulness—is what brought them together. This gathering shaped a spiritual heritage that is being extended by pioneers around the world today.
Modern-day pioneers do not travel to Zion by wagon trains and ox teams, or endure starvation and bitter weather on the plains of Wyoming. But they face journeys of a lifetime just the same. They are the first members of the Church in their homelands or families; they learn and then teach the gospel in many languages and nations; they are the congregations that stand as one to sing “The Spirit of God” in the dedication of a new temple; they are the faithful who sometimes feel they trudge through daily living, their experiences their own pioneer footprints in the sandy soil of secular society. All are guided by the Lord, who said, “I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion.” (Jeremiah 3:14.)
Pioneers are those who walk a difficult trail to distant frontiers. Gospel pioneers are those who break new ground, who press forward into a wilderness believing fervently that they are building the kingdom of God and that God is directing the way. . . .
Pioneers do not set out to be heroes. Yet, they become examples to those who follow because they carry on by applying righteous principles. For the most part, they are good people quietly doing their part. Said President Young to those preparing to cross the plains in one of the early companies, “I just do the thing that I know to be right and the Lord blesses me.” (Thomas Bullock Journal, 8 Mar. 1847, LDS Church Historical Department.)
Our pioneer heritage is yoked to distinguishing traits that characterize a latter-day Zion people. Those strengths were described by the Lord to Joseph Smith in 1829:
“O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength. . . . And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for the work. Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence.” (D&C 4:2, 5–6.)
It was with faith that William Atkin and his wife approached the Green River with their handcart only to find that the wagon train they were with had already crossed and gone on. Turning to his wife, William said, “We cannot cross this river alone.” She responded, “No, but the Lord will help us over.” . . .
It was with faith that the first Latter-day Saint meetings in Estipac, Mexico, were held. At first the missionaries and their investigators met in an electrical shop. Water was sprinkled on the dirt floor to keep the dust down, and a fifty-gallon oil drum was rolled to the front to serve as a pulpit. A borrowed white tablecloth was draped over the cardboard box sacrament table. Makeshift, yes, but the first pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley met for Sunday services in the field and leaned against wagon wheels for support. Twenty people came that first week in Estipac, but the next Sunday the electrical shop was closed. Brother Nicolas Gonzalez offered, “You may use my house. I have been building two extra rooms. I don’t need the rooms. I don’t know why I was building them. But now I know. There is space there for the people.” The missionaries knew God had prepared a place for them.
It was with charity that Relief Society sisters, led by their president Iby Subowo, cared for each other in Indonesia in 1976, even though they had little to share. Every morning before they began their cooking, each sister would hold back a spoonful of rice. By Sunday each sister had a small bag of rice to take to the meeting. The sisters would pray to know who needed the rice, and then all would go for the visit. The frontier ethic is one of sharing, not hoarding, however scant the supplies.
It was with courage that Russian Andrei Seminov joined the Church. For years he had been an agnostic. “I had looked for truth,” he said, “but when I first heard the Latter-day Saint doctrines I was afraid. The standards seemed too high, too impossible to live. Since then I’ve learned that there is a source of strength to help me live this way.”
It was with patience that members in East Germany and other countries behind the Iron Curtain waited for decades to reestablish Church association. For decades their governments limited and often forbade their meeting and their teaching the gospel to others. In the meantime, the members did what they could. They fasted the third Sunday of every month for the return of the missionaries. When the doors were finally opened, a young missionary, one of the first sent into East Germany, exclaimed, “It was a great honor to be the answer to someone’s forty-year-old prayers.”
Pioneers. Today they are building Zion in Sweden and South Africa, South Carolina and Peru. Diligent gospel pioneers have always led the way, not just in this dispensation but in earlier ones, too. Moses led his people out of Egypt, and they wandered in the wilderness for forty years before finally reaching the promised land. Lehi and his family faced countless unknowns in their journey to their promised land. And the apostle Peter leaped over the side of the Galilean fishing boat to begin his pioneering in the Church by walking on water. Their experiences and those of the pioneers who crossed the plains of North America in the mid-1800s remind us that the most critical journey of all is to come unto Christ. Pioneers—may we be in their company. “I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion.” (Jeremiah 3:14.) (Heidi S. Swinton, Pioneer Spirit: Modern-Day Stories of Courage and Conviction [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1996], 5.)
SUMMARY
Returning to the presence of our Heavenly Father requires that we become pure in heart, that we become like our Savior Jesus Christ. This is the purpose of Earth life, to become even as He is (see 3 Ne. 27:27) and to prepare to return to God. When we do return to Him, we will be judged according to our works and the desires of our hearts (see Alma 41:3), to see if we belong in Zion. Therefore, our hearts must be pure. A Zion person can make a great difference in the lives of all the people he or she associates with. We can become a Zion people, one person at a time and one family at a time This is the cause of Zion—to bless the children of our Heavenly Father, that they too can be partakers of eternal life.