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EDUCATION
“We are a Church of learners—learners who aspire in faith to understand more fully all the saving principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. And we are a Church of teachers—teachers who reach out with joy to share the good news of the gospel with others. We expand our education by studying the word of God and teaching 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” (D&C 88:118). How can we do this more systematically and thus enhance and accelerate our education as missionaries of the Lord?”
This topic has been written with the young student in mind. Gaining knowledge and skill through education should be the goal for everyone, but especially for the rising generation. The lack of formal education limits one’s choices by restricting the acquisition of knowledge and skills. Education allows one to choose a rewarding occupation based upon preferences and aptitudes. In today’s society one’s capacity to provide financially is directly tied the amount of education one receives.
Nevertheless, income should not be the sole motivating force behind our education, since learning in general opens the door to a myriad of opportunities in the quest for a fulfilling, rewarding, and productive life. It expands the mind, feeds the soul, and provides enjoyment and excitement for life. There is still so much to learn about God, His children, and all of creation.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
2 Nephi 28:30. For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have.
Learning is a process that builds on each concept we internalize. We are encouraged to learn by study and by faith (see D&C 88:118). We are to seek knowledge in many things, especially an understanding of different peoples and their countries so that we can better prepare for the building up of the kingdom of God through missionary labors (see D&C 93:53).
2 Nephi 9:29.But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God.
Let us remember to balance secular education with gospel learning. All worthy learning is a reflection of the light and truth imbued in us through the Creator. Learning isolated unto itself stands in risk of fostering pride; learning in a spirit of gratitude to our Father in Heaven, and in accordance with principles of truth, is ennobling.
Alma 37:35. O, remember, my son, and learn wisdom in thy youth; yea, learn in thy youth to keep the commandments of God.
The more education we receive, and the earlier we receive it, the better off we will be. We should learn and incorporate the gospel as early in life as we can to stay near our Savior and avoid sin. We are also admonished to help our children learn in their youth, and especially to educate them to keep the commandments (see D&C 68:25–28).
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 are a church of learners and teachers; we are all called to teach one another, and so must seek to better understand truth. The Lord has provided us with scriptures, words of the prophets, as well as a world of great literature and textbooks, from which to gain knowledge. It is our job to seek this knowledge from all good sources (see A of F 1:13) through faith, that we can learn what God has to teach us and what the Holy Ghost can testify of (Moro. 10:5).
Doctrine and Covenants 93:36–37. The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth. Light and truth forsake that evil one.
As we seek to become like our Savior and Heavenly Father, let us aspire to partake of Their wisdom and glory—that is, Their divine intelligence. Light and truth will educate us eternally and give us power to overcome evil.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Ezra Taft Benson:
Knowledge is power, but the most vital and important knowledge is a knowledge of God—that He lives, that we are His children, that He loves us, that we are created in His image, that we can in faith pray to Him and receive strength and inspiration in time of need.
Such knowledge is priceless. True, “man is saved no faster than he gains knowledge” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 217). Knowledge of what? Knowledge of God! Knowledge of His purpose and plans for the welfare, blessing, and eternal exaltation of us, His children. All useful knowledge is of value. The seeking of such knowledge is, therefore, commendable and rewarding. But in all of our searching for truth, we must remember that the knowledge of God, our Father, and His plans for us, His children, is of supreme importance. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 294)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
Each day we are made increasingly aware of the fact that life is more than science and mathematics, more than history and literature. There is need for another education, without which the substance of our secular learning may lead only to our destruction. I refer to the education of the heart, of the conscience, of the character, of the spirit—these indefinable aspects of our personalities which determine so certainly what we are and what we do in our relationships one with another. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 167–68)
Be smart about training your minds and hands for the future. Each of you is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. . . . You have an obligation to make the most of your life. Plan now for all the education you can get, and then work to bring to pass a fulfillment of that plan. . . .
I am not suggesting that all of you should become professional men. What I am suggesting is this: whatever you choose to do, train for it. Qualify yourselves. Take advantage of the experience and learning of those who have gone before you in whatever field you choose. Education is a shortcut to proficiency. It makes it possible to leapfrog over the mistakes of the past. . . .
Begin early in exposing children to books. The mother who fails to read to her small children does a disservice to them and a disservice to herself. It takes time, yes, much of it. It takes self-discipline. It takes organizing and budgeting the minutes and hours of the day. But it will never be a bore as you watch young minds come to know characters, expressions, and ideas. Good reading can become a love affair, far more fruitful in long term effects than many other activities in which children use their time. It has been estimated that “the average child on this continent has watched something like 8,000 hours of TV before he or she even starts school.” A very large part of that is of questionable value.
Parents, work at the matter of creating an atmosphere in your homes. Let your children be exposed to great minds, great ideas, everlasting truth, and those things which will build and motivate for good. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 169)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are four things to remember in seeking and gaining a meaningful education:
1. Keep your motivation high.
● Increased financial security—Derek Bok, former president of Harvard University, put it well: “If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.” There is no greater place to invest your time, energy, and resources than in a meaningful education.
● Enhanced communication skills—In our world, so much depends on interpersonal skills, and a well-educated person is simply more comfortable with a wider range of people.
● Staying up-to-date—The constant influx of knowledge in our time means that education on a continuing basis is the only way you can succeed.
● Self-respect—It is more than just a case of earning more money; education will add depth and breadth to your life. Do your best in school. Help your children succeed in school. You will give them—and yourself—the gift of self-respect.
● Quality of life—”It’s learning what to do with a living after you earn it that counts.” (Abraham Lincoln)
2. Have an educational strategy in mind and follow it.
● Develop good study and learning habits.
Study in a place where distractions are minimal.
Read lecture material prior to the teacher’s lecture.
Take good notes.
Have a study partner or study group.
Make a timeline for completing assignments.
Take a memory course, which will help in all of your classes.
Budget your time wisely so that each subject is covered.
In preparation for tests be sure you cover the teacher’s prescribed material.
● Follow your preferences—Do those worthwhile and noble things that you love to do, and build the best education around them.
● Be practical—It is not just facts and figures that matter, but rather it is the wise and judicious use of information to bless lives that really counts.
● Balance—You don’t need to give up all your television and recreation time—but make education a top priority. Don’t forget your spiritual education.
● Preparation—Prepare well for college or other forms of higher learning and training. Research what you need to do to qualify for these opportunities, and then follow through.
● Informal learning—There is also continuing, informal education that is important—networking with others, newspapers, books, the internet, internships, non-credit courses, seminars, and workshops.
3. Do it for others as well.
● Consequences—Your education has consequences for your children, for your whole family, for the community. Therefore, it’s not just for you that you are educated. Remember your loved ones.
● Responsibility—Take responsibility for the education of your children. Make education a family goal.
4. Never give up.
● Be persistent—Whatever you do, never quit high school. It will plague you forever. And never quit learning. “The education of a man is never completed until he dies” (Robert E. Lee).
5. Always seek gospel knowledge.
● We cannot be saved in ignorance—Let us seek the word of God in all that we do. This is the knowledge that saves our souls if we will follow the counsel of the Lord (see D&C 131:6).
● Never sacrifice the testimony of God to gain secular knowledge—Let us never put our trust in the arm of flesh and the reasoning of the secular world. The world’s knowledge is always in flux, whereas the laws of God are eternal verities (see 2 Ne. 9:28–29).
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIME
This story recounts a time in the author’s life when he discovered that the majority of troubled youth in his city were illiterate, and how this experience impressed upon him the great value of education.
The Root Cause
I was serving on the children and youth committee for our city years ago. We, like other cities, had concerns for the well-being of our youth. Dropouts from high school were on the rise, delinquency was increasing, and truancy and misguided behavior in school were affecting too many children. We had a problem. We enlisted PTA help. Parents became not only concerned but also highly involved. Things began to change. We started to help the troubled youth. When they knew we cared, it affected their desire and behavior in a positive way. It was surprising the change, but it was wonderful. As we began to receive feedback from the youth, we soon realized a common denominator among all the troubled and delinquent youth—more than 80 percent of them had difficulty in reading. They could not read! That was it. That was the root cause. Their education was so limited that they could not and would not “fit in” with their peers. Low self-esteem and self-confidence had lead them to withdraw. They sought acceptance in gangs. Birds of a feather really do flock together. How could all this start? Education gives freedom, increases abilities, and gives self-confidence and self-esteem. Remember, don’t short-change yourself or your family—help everyone achieve in life by getting a good education.
—Ed J. Pinegar
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The following story discusses how knowledge is of little value until it is helpfully and wisely applied.
The Hidden Wisdom
It began as a routine statement about education but ended as a life-changing demonstration about wisdom. The presenter, a representative of one of the large publishing houses in America, stood on the stage before a vast audience of educators and writers. Behind him was a gigantic banner than stretched from wall to wall, emblazoned with the words “Education is the Acquisition of Knowledge.” As he intoned his message about acquiring learning, it seemed that he was preaching to the choir, restating the age-old message about the need for expanding one’s inventory of facts and figures. The audience was on the verge of getting sleepy.
But then, just at the right moment, he raised the question about whether his thesis, in fact, was really true. That caught our attention. At the same time, he did something uncommon. He walked back to the banner and pointed out a fold midway in the material. With the help of several assistants, he then caused this fold to be opened up, revealing the hidden text contained within. Now the expanded statement read: “Education is the acquisition of the art of the utilization of knowledge.” The audience gasped at the implication. The statement, a quote from the British philosopher Alfred North Whitehead, was a clear reminder that education for its own sake, without application, was a shallow exercise. What truly counts is learning that can profitably be applied to good ends.
I will never forget that demonstration in applied learning. In a memorable way it reminded me (and all of the other attendees at the conference) that knowledge, isolated unto itself, is of little value. Only when learning is turned to helpful and wise applications of service can it be deemed useful. In fact, applied learning leads, in time, to that most desirable quality—wisdom. It was King Benjamin who stated the case most succinctly: “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). The paragon and prototype of this kind of applied learning was the Savior Himself, whom Isaiah characterized in this manner: “And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord” (2 Ne. 21: 2). It is this kind of proactive and goal-centered learning that constitutes wisdom, concerning which Solomon assured us: “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding” (Prov. 3:13).
—Richard J. Allen
SUMMARY
The ideas and suggestions in this article are designed to help you and your children succeed in acquiring more education—in school, in college, in the workforce, and in personal study. Society has learned by sad experience that illiteracy and poor school performance are often a common denominator for juvenile delinquency. In light of this, it is important to create an atmosphere of learning in the home. Let us strive to make it exciting and rewarding to learn. One of the most noble things a parent can do to bless the life of a child is to help him or her have a desire to learn. Education in all of its ramifications should ultimately be the quest for truth. The gospel encompasses all truth; understanding and appreciating knowledge will help us live a Christlike life and lead us back into the presence of our Heavenly Father.
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ENDURING TO THE END
“Our gospel message for family, friends, and seekers of truth is of a dual nature: first, we are all invited by a loving Lord to embark with faith and humility onto the pathway of salvation through obedience to the principles and ordinances of His gospel; and, secondly, we are to press forward along that pathway with unending resolve and endurance until the ultimate goal is reached—to be received by our Father and His Son into our heavenly home of eternal glory. What strategies can we follow to ensure that we will endure to the end in faith and valor by following in the footsteps of the Redeemer and guiding others to do the same?”
Enduring to the end is the process of continuing on the straight and narrow course, serving God and our fellowmen to the end of our mortal lives. By enduring, we are persistent in doing our duty with unwavering steadfastness. We walk in the ways of the Lord by keeping the commandments. Enduring to the end is proof of our faith and confirmation of the depth of our conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. This becomes the true test of life: Will we endure to the end?
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Matthew 24:13. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Salvation and exaltation are the reward for all those who endure to the end. If we do not endure to the end we are damned (see 2 Ne. 9:24).
2 Nephi 31:20. Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.
Enduring with a “steadfastness in Christ” means we remain faithful to our covenants with the Lord, and stay active in His Church and His gospel. To endure we should continue with hope, love, and feasting upon the word of God. This will give us power to endure to the end. We will seek the cause of Zion, publish peace, and be lifted up at the last day (see 1 Ne. 13:37).
Alma 1:25. Now this was a great trial to those that did stand fast in the faith; nevertheless, they were steadfast and immovable in keeping the commandments of God, and they bore with patience the persecution which was heaped upon them.
Merely enduring is not enough. We must endure well by standing fast in the faith, being steadfast and immovable, abiding in patience even when persecution is upon us.
Doctrine and Covenants 127:4. And again, verily thus saith the Lord: Let the work of my temple, and all the works which I have appointed unto you, be continued on and not cease; and let your diligence, and your perseverance, and patience, and your works be redoubled, and you shall in nowise lose your reward, saith the Lord of Hosts. And if they persecute you, so persecuted they the prophets and righteous men that were before you. For all this there is a reward in heaven.
It is not enough to just go to church once, or participate in a family home evening once, or read the Book of Mormon once. We are to carry out the works of the Lord unceasingly. As Saints of the Most High God, our devotion is expressed in our diligence in keeping the commandments—even when persecution rages against us. We never give up, never give in, never give out.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Jeffrey R. Holland:
Often one hears trite, sometimes consciously apologetic references to “enduring to the end” as an addition to the first principles and ordinances of the gospel. Nevertheless, the doctrine of faithful endurance is infinitely serious, and it is here [2 Ne. 31:15–16] declared to be a basic principle of the gospel by the God and Father of us all. “Enduring to the end” is an integral element in the doctrine of Christ, and without it, it would have been better not to have known him. (Christ and the New Covenant: The Messianic Message of the Book of Mormon [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 54)
This is another “first principle” beyond the four usually listed, taught by the Father himself. Nephi wrote, “I heard a voice from the Father, saying: Yea, the words of my Beloved are true and faithful. He that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved.” Nephi then added his own witness, saying, “And now, my beloved brethren, I know by this that unless a man shall endure to the end, in following the example of the Son of the living God, he cannot be saved.” [2 Nephi 31:15–16.] (Christ and the New Covenant: The Messianic Message of the Book of Mormon [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 398)
Neal A. Maxwell:
Enduring affliction is certainly part of enduring to the end, but the word enduring also means to last, to continue, and to remain (see 2 Nephi 33:9). This emphasis on staying the course appears at so many points in the scriptures (for examples, see D&C 20:29; 2 Nephi 9:24). We could scarcely become “finished” or “completed” if we did not finish and complete all of life’s assigned course! (Lord, Increase Our Faith [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1994], 45)
Joseph B. Wirthlin:
I know that each of us has much to do. Sometimes we feel overwhelmed by the tasks we face. But if we keep our priorities in order, we can accomplish all that we should. We can endure to the end regardless of temptations, problems, and challenges. Those who remain faithful will receive God’s greatest blessing—eternal life—and the privilege of living with our Heavenly Father and his Beloved Son in the celestial kingdom. (Ensign, Nov., 1990, 64)
Marion G. Romney:
When earth life is over, and things appear in their true perspective, we shall more clearly see . . . that the fruits of the gospel are the only objectives worthy of life’s full effort.” (Conference Report, October 1949, 39)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are four ideas to help us endure to the end:
1. Maintain your vision of the plan of happiness.
● Understand the rewards—Knowing the rewards for keeping the commandments and enduring well will keep us focused on living the gospel (see D&C 14:7).
● Understand the doctrine—When we understand and appreciate the saving principles and ordinances, we will want to partake of them and keep them (see 1 Ne. 16:29).
● Keep service as the center of our mission—The true purpose of life is not in the accumulation of things, but in serving God and our fellowmen to the end of our mortal lives (Mosiah 18:13).
● Transcend adversity—Recognize that trials, tribulation, and even persecution are part of the test (see 2 Nephi 2:11; 4:27; Abr. 3:25). We must overcome and endure well in order to pass the test of life (D&C 121:8).
● Know the Lord’s expectations—We must never forget that where much is given much is expected (see Luke 12:48), and never-ending happiness is our reward if we endure well our time on earth (see Mosiah 2:41).
2. Cultivate the vision of your role in the plan of happiness.
● Focus on eternal roles—Each of us has eternal roles within the family unit that have eternal consequences in relation to how well we magnify them. We have callings within the Church that require a similar accounting as to our performance. Enduring to the end has everything to do with the fulfilling these two kinds of roles.
● Remember the obligation to build up the kingdom—We are to seek to build up the kingdom of God (see JST Matt. 6:38) by helping people come unto Christ (see D&C 15:6).
● Seek to bless others—We are disciples of Christ. We love one another (see John 13:34–35). We serve with all our heart, might, mind, and strength (see D&C 4:2), strengthening one another in all we do (D&C 108:7).
3. Be totally and completely converted.
● Conversion is the key to power—The depth of our conversion gives us power to serve with all diligence (see Alma 36:24).
● Conversion brings a commitment to serve others—When one is converted, one’s first concern is for the welfare of others (see Enos 1:9, 11; Mosiah 28:3). This gives us enduring power to serve when things are difficult. The sons of Mosiah are perfect examples.
● Conversion leads to the gift of the Holy Ghost—With conversion comes the gift of the Holy Ghost (see 2 Ne. 31:12), who will comfort, teach, and strengthen us in our times of need (see D&C 36:2), helping us to endure to the end.
● Service opens the way for obedience—As we seek to serve the Lord, He will always provide us a way to keep the commandments (see 1 Ne. 3:7).
4. Seek strength in the Lord.
● Covenant valor brings strength—The Lord Jesus Christ gives us strength and support as we remain faithful to our covenants.
● Humility brings strength—When we recognize that our strength is in the Lord, and not in ourselves, we will have the power given us through Him to endure (see Alma 26:12).
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIME
Told by Leon R. Hartshorn, the following story provides a witness that enduring to the end is a lifelong pursuit.
Endure to the End
Authorization, as many of you know, has been given by the Brethren for Relief Societies, under specified circumstances, to be organized in nursing or residential homes for older sisters. One day I visited such a Relief Society. The members were between seventy-five and ninety years of age. They were ambulatory, bright of mind, and enthusiastic over their society. The lesson was from the Doctrine and Covenants and was followed by testimony bearing. The sisters contributed intelligently to the lesson discussions. Their offerings reflected a knowledge of Church doctrine and familiarity with the gospel, as well as rich life experiences. It was a delightful meeting. Then came the testimony period. Each sister who spoke, one by one, prayed that she would endure to the end. As I contemplated their intelligent understanding of the gospel as demonstrated in the discussion, and as I considered how late in life it was for most of them, I thought, why would they pray that they might endure to the end? Surely they have already proved themselves.
Later, however, in private conversation with some of them, I was made aware that they were not entirely above reproach, that they had a tendency to excuse themselves for failures to comply with the laws of the gospel because of age and circumstances.
These are a few comments made by these sisters as I talked with them:
One sister said, “We have sacrament meeting here at the home, as well as Relief Society, but I never go to sacrament meeting. I am too old to be preached to.” I inquired, “Don’t you feel a need to partake of the sacrament?” “No,” the sister indifferently replied. “I don’t think it matters at my age.”
Another sister said, “I want to move to a little better home.
“I have enough money to do so. I have no one on whom to spend my money but myself. My family does not need it, and I am no longer interested in doing things for others that cost money. I don’t even pay tithing. I don’t think the Lord expects it of one my age.”
Still another sister, who was drinking tea as I called, said, “I almost live on tea. When I was a younger woman, you couldn’t have hired me to drink a cup of tea, but I don’t think it will be held against me now.”
Yet another said, as we heard footsteps near the door, “I hope that’s not my daughter. She only comes because she fears criticism if she doesn’t. She has very little love for me, and I have very little for her.”
One more comment: “I seem to be growing weaker every day, suffering as I do with pain. I used to have the elders administer to me, but I don’t believe in that anymore.”
Attendance at sacrament meeting, partaking of the sacrament, renewing one’s covenants, the payment of tithing, observance of the Word of Wisdom, love of family, priesthood administration—all basic laws of the gospel—had been abandoned by one or the other of these sisters with a feeling of justification; yet each had earnestly prayed that she might endure to the end.
Sympathetic as we may be toward these sisters and toward their circumstances, and understanding as we may be of their actions, yet we must recognize that with clear minds they were justifying the nonobservance of God’s laws. I am led to ask also, Has the Lord ever set a retirement age for keeping his commandments? (as told by Leon R. Hartshorn, comp., Remarkable Stories from the Lives of Latter-day Saint Women, 2 vols. [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1973], 1:231)
SUMMARY
The reward for enduring to the end is eternal life—the greatest gift of God (see D&C 14:7). Recognizing the blessings of eternal life should increase our desire and motivation to persevere with all diligence. Enduring requires steadfastness rooted in Christ and a willingness to sacrifice all for the gospel cause. It is not an easy road and it wasn’t intended to be so, but the joy of the work will carry us forward (see Alma 36:24), even to eternal life, a state of never-ending happiness (see Mosiah 2:41). Our goal is set: Endure to the end.
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ETERNAL PROGRESSION
“As the emissaries of the Lord, we share with others our witness that we are all truly the sons and daughters of God with an eternal destiny to return to His presence one day through faithful obedience to His commandments. The Savior taught: “For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). How can we best assure our listeners of the promised blessings of the Lord— that He will endow them with saving knowledge, guide them by His Spirit, prepare and seal them through sacred covenant ordinances, and grant them the capacity to endure to the end through the sublime blessings of the Atonement?”
In premortal life we lived as the children of God the Eternal Father. Heavenly Father’s plan was presented and we accepted it, under the leadership of Jesus Christ, the Son of the Almighty. We were valiant in our premortal estate and were sent here to Earth as mortals to work out our salvation through the gospel plan. Earth life is a test (see Abr. 3:25) to see if we will continue in our progression, which began long before we were born. We are given enabling power through the grace of God to grow and progress through the difficulties and challenges we face. This is why Christ’s atoning sacrifice was the center of the plan of happiness and the very core of the gospel of Jesus Christ. His Atonement makes possible not only forgiveness of our sins if we repent, but provides for immortality and eternal life. Each of these aspects of the Atonement is a way for us to progress. Eternal life is given to those who qualify by entering into sacred covenants and ordinances and remaining true and faithful to them. This is eternal progression. We then can enjoy the blessings of exaltation.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Romans 8:16. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.
The knowledge that we are the children of God should give us magnificent self-worth and confidence. We are created in His image and have the potential to become like Him if we are faithful to our covenants.
2 Nephi 28:30. For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have.
Here on earth we grow one step at a time. When we receive and hearken to the Lord’s counsel and commandments, the Lord gives us more. We continue to grow and to become like Him.
Alma 13:3. And this is the manner after which they were ordained—being called and prepared from the foundation of the world according to the foreknowledge of God, on account of their exceeding faith and good works; in the first place being left to choose good or evil; therefore they having chosen good, and exercising exceedingly great faith, are called with a holy calling, yea, with that holy calling which was prepared with, and according to, a preparatory redemption for such.
We not only accepted the plan of salvation premortally but we also proved our worthiness through our obedience and loyalty. Thus we became foreordained to continue this progression in performing covenant duties and services upon the earth.
Doctrine and Covenants 81:6. And if thou art faithful unto the end thou shalt have a crown of immortality, and eternal life in the mansions which I have prepared in the house of my Father.
The blessings of following Christ and keeping His commandments are beyond comprehension (see D&C 76:114). Surely the reward that the Lord has prepared for us should help us in our desire and effort in progressing to become like Him.
Abraham 3:25–26. And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them; And they who keep their first estate shall be added upon; and they who keep not their first estate shall not have glory in the same kingdom with those who keep their first estate; and they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever.
We kept our first estate in the pre-earth life (meaning we were faithful) and are now here upon the earth to be tested to prove ourselves worthy of returning to the presence of our Heavenly Father. This is the time to prepare to meet God (see Alma 34:32). We have the blessing of moral agency which God gave so we could choose for ourselves—liberty and eternal life (progression) or captivity and death (digression) (see 2 Ne. 2:27).
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Gordon B. Hinckley:
The Church is the great teacher and builder of values. Its precepts are designed to lead men and women along the way of immortality and eternal life, to make their lives more complete, more rich and happy while moving through this vale of tears, and in preparing them for the beauties and wonders of that which lies ahead. Keep faith with the Church. It is true. It is divine. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 116)
Neal A. Maxwell:
Discipleship need not be hectic. The gospel suggests to us ultimate perfection, but eternal progression rests on the assumption of gradual but regular improvement in our lives. In the city of Enoch the near perfection of this people occurred “in process of time” over many, many years. This is also the case with us. (Deposition of a Disciple [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1976], 70)
It is much easier to believe in eternal progression than to practice daily improvement. Likewise, the need for humility is easy to assent to, but it is so difficult to receive corrective counsel humbly. The hard doctrines . . . are more keys to personal growth. This scripture could well be their theme: “He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.” (Proverbs 15:32. Italics added.) (All These Things Shall Give Thee Experience [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1979], 71)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are some ideas concerning premortality, mortality, and immortality and eternal life that will help us in our understanding and progression.
1. The foundation for eternal progression was laid in the premortal existence.
● Heritage—We are the divine spirit children of God the Eternal Father (see Rom. 8:16).
● First estate—We made good choices in our first estate (see Alma 13:3).
● Commitment to the plan—We joyfully accepted the plan of salvation (see Job 38:7) and agreed to come to Earth to work out our salvation according to the gospel plan (see Abr. 3:26).
● Memory—We have had a veil placed over our memories of the first estate so that we can progress in our faith.
2. The time of probation and proving is the mortal years.
● Preparation to meet God—This is the time to prepare to meet God (see Alma 34:32).
● Agency—We have the God-given power to make correct choices that will bring us closer to our goal (see 2 Ne. 2:27).
● The Spirit—We can be directed by the Spirit in our progression (see 2 Ne. 32:5).
● Proactive engagement—Progression is not measured just in the big milestones, but in moving forward every day. We should always be “anxiously engaged in a good cause” (see D&C 58:27–28).
● Line upon line—We learn and progress line upon line and precept upon precept (see 2 Ne. 28:30). This not a race for the swift but for those who endure to the end (2 Ne. 31:20). We need not be overwhelmed, for the Lord will help us (see 1 Ne. 3:7).
● Vision—Keep the vision, desire, preparation, and commitment for living a Christlike life foremost in your minds.
3. The rewards and promised glory come with immortality and eternal life.
● Gratitude—The blessings of immortality and eternal life come from our Heavenly Father through His Son Jesus Christ as He worked out the infinite and eternal sacrifice we call the Atonement (see 2 Ne. 9:10–13). Progression is not possible without the Atonement. Gratitude for this transcending sacrifice surely should inspire us to keep the commandments.
● Grace—With the grace of God through the Atonement, all that remains is for us to work out our salvation by keeping the commandments (see 2 Ne. 25:23). He has made our progression possible despite our mortal shortcomings.
● Exaltation—Immortality is given to all who kept their first estate, but exaltation is reserved for those who have entered into the lifesaving covenants and ordinances, progressing in faith to the end (see D&C 63:20; 84:33–44; 131).
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIMES
This experience demonstrates the importance of everyday choices to our eternal progression:
The Great Divide
A few miles west of magnificent Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Alberta, there is a small stream that flows down the western slope of the mountain ridge and passes underneath the Trans Canada Highway, where it soon encounters an outcropping of rocks and divides into two tiny streamlets, each one barely a foot across. One of them flows northward into the Bow River, and then eastward via major waterways into the Hudson Bay. The other flows southward into the Kicking House River, and from thence into the Columbia River and eventually into the Pacific Ocean. A droplet of water flowing down that stream would face the prospect, at the seemingly small Great Divide, of going either toward the frozen expanse of the North, or toward the more hospitable waters of the Pacific. Either direction is as likely as the other for the water in these streamlets.
As a young man, I used to drive tour a tour bus in that area to earn money for college. One of the most compelling sights for tourists was that stop near the large sign spanning the highway that identified “The Great Divide.” The visitors would walk down a path along the small stream and peer with fascination at the spot where it divided into two. On one of the tours, I noticed a woman staring engrossed at the dividing stream for several minutes. “Why are you so interested in that stream?” I asked her. “Because,” she said quietly, “that’s life.” And so it is. Life is a series of small daily choices that define our ultimate progression. Out of the small choices of today will flow the mighty downstream rivers of tomorrow. In life the small often defines the large; the seemingly insignificant frequently determines the big picture. The milestones of our eternal progression consist of even the simple decisions we make—day by day—that define our character, align us with cherished and proven principles, and ultimately convey us toward perfection.
All too often, though, we fail to see what greatness is possible from such simplicity. The Syrian Naaman was told by Elisha to bathe himself seven times in the waters of the Jordan and be freed of his leprosy—and Naaman almost relinquished the reward of well-being out of contempt for the simplicity of the solution (2 Kgs. 5:8–14). Centuries before, Moses instructed the Israelites, plagued and tormented by poisonous snakes, simply to look upon the elevated brazen serpent and live (Num. 21:7–9; 2 Ne. 25:20). Yet many would not even do that. In all of the complexity of modern life, in all of the sophistication of modern society, we also overlook the elegant simplicity of the gospel plan, the supremely straightforward and unobtrusive counsel of the prophets to direct our vision to the Master. “And as many as should look upon that serpent should live, even so as many as should look upon the Son of God with faith, having a contrite spirit, might live, even unto that life which is eternal” (Hel. 8:15). All of us come to the Great Divide every day of our lives. With the help of God, we can make those daily decisions that comprise fixing our gaze upon the Savior. We can decide to do the simple deeds of righteousness, kindness, and service that lead to eternal life. Eternal progression is accomplished line upon line, here a little and there a little, one day at a time, one step at a time—but ever toward that transcendent example set by the Savior as marked by His footprints in the spiritual sands of time.
—Richard J. Allen
SUMMARY
The joy and opportunity of becoming like our Heavenly Father and our Savior is the essence of life. The plan has been given, the Atonement has been wrought, and it is left up to us to choose. The only way we can truly grow is by making choices that lead to eternal life. Our Heavenly Father seeks our happiness—our immortality and eternal life. If we fail it is because we have broken ourselves against the commandments and have not practiced the lifesaving principle of repentance. We can enjoy the blessings of exaltation and become perfect—simply by repenting perfectly. This will bring joy to us and to our Heavenly Father and our Savior (see D&C 18:13).
♦
EXAMPLE
“What greater message of hope and trust can we share with those who are seeking the truth than the invitation to join with us in glorifying the Lord as our eternal Exemplar of love, mercy, grace, and obedience to the will of the Father? How can we best let our love for the Lord radiate light, encouragement, and gratitude to bless our family, our friends, and all those with hearts open to the good news of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ?”
An example is a model or pattern for living and it is one of life’s most powerful teachers. Its power is often greater than that of words. We follow examples and we act as examples to others for good or for ill nearly every moment of our lives, and even after we are gone.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
John 13:15. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
Whenever we have a doubt or concern as to how to act or treat others, remember we have our perfect example in the Lord Jesus Christ. Our goal should be to do as He has done (see 3 Ne. 27:27).
Acts 13:47. For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.
It is important that we set a worthy example for everyone, especially those who have not heard the gospel. The Lord has commanded us to do so, and the Spirit will direct us.
Jacob 2:35. Behold, ye have done greater iniquities than the Lamanites, our brethren. Ye have broken the hearts of your tender wives, and lost the confidence of your children, because of your bad examples before them; and the sobbings of their hearts ascend up to God against you. And because of the strictness of the word of God, which cometh down against you, many hearts died, pierced with deep wounds.
Just as good examples have the power to bless lives, so do bad examples have the power to hurt lives. One must never forget that someone is watching and will be affected by what we do.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Ezra Taft Benson:
How many parents in the Church today owe their membership in the Church largely to the example of one of their own children, one of their children who first came in contact with the Church through the Primary, through a Scout troop or some other unit. When you teach them, often your lessons are carried into homes where parents may not be members of the Church, or may be inactive. The power of example in the life of a child is most potent indeed. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 158)
Harold B. Lee:
In all leadership situations in which we seek to improve human behavior, it is difficult to overestimate the power of example—whether it consists of parents both showing and telling their children about the value of temple marriage or a returned missionary who shines forth as a result of the changes and maturation the gospel has wrought in him. (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1996], 508)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
Behold your little ones and teach them. I need not remind you that your example will do more than anything else in impressing upon their minds a pattern of life. It is always interesting to meet the children of old friends and to find in another generation the ways of their fathers and mothers. (Be Thou an Example [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1981], 38)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Listed below are three ideas to remember as part of being an example:
1. Make a conscious decision to be the best possible example.
● Recognition—Recognize the power of example and seek to become an example you would be pleased to have others follow. Remember that every moment someone, somewhere, is being affected by the power of your example (see 1 Tim. 4:12).
● Choice—We cannot choose not to be an example, for we are an example in spite of ourselves—but we can choose to be a good one.
● Values—Establish the gospel of Jesus Christ as the standard for behavior. Establish a pattern, even a routine, for living an exemplary life.
● Love—Think of your life as a garden of love. Through your example, you are planting good seeds for the coming generation. What you cultivate in your garden will grow into plants that will bear good fruit and nourish the lives of others.
● Total commitment—Your example is projected in your thoughts, in your speech, in your deportment, in your habits, in your actions. Like a television medium, there are many channels to your example that people will tune into, whether or not you are aware of it. Make a commitment that each channel of your life will be an example worthy of emulation.
2. Have an action plan for being a good example on a daily basis.
● Write it down—Make a specific plan to do exemplary things for your children and loved ones each day. Make a list of the values you would like your family to cultivate, and then set a goal to exemplify each of those values in some specific way on a regular basis.
● Be patient—Don’t force it. Look for the teaching moments, rather than being preachy or coercive.
● Praise others—Recognize and praise others gratefully for their good example to you.
● Have heroes—Select good role models for yourself and your family. Identify a few people who have contributed exemplary patterns for your life and point out their good example to your loved ones and children. Point out to your family the good examples of forebears. Encourage your children to pick out good role models as well.
● Look to God—Look to the Savior’s examples for comfort and encouragement. The greatest patterns for life are found in the scriptures and in the lives of those who follow the teachings therein (see John 13:15).
3. You’re not perfect—but you can keep trying. When you slip and fall short of the expectations you have set for yourself, frankly admit it and do better. Set an example of someone who is humble, teachable, and committed to improving day-by-day.
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIME
The following story illustrates how we are always being an example, whether we choose to be or not.
Like Father, Like Son
In my life I have been affected tremendously by the power of example, just as you have. For good or ill, example is always there. I’ll never forget the day when I took my two youngest sons, ages eight and six, to look at new cars. We casually walked through the car lot. As we passed a car, I kicked the tire as we all sometimes do. I looked back to check my sons to see if they were close to me. I watched in awe as each son walked by the car and kicked the tire just like their dad did. It hit me with such impact—I must be a good example for my children. They will do what I do. I’d best consider my ways and choose always to be a good example in all things. Take the time to be an example at all times and in all places.
—Ed J. Pinegar
* * *
Told by Boyd K. Packer, this story discusses the positive effect of an American Latter-day Saint family on the Church’s image in St. Petersburg, Russia:
Latter-day Saint Influence Endures
One Sunday, Sister Packer and I were returning from an assignment in Europe, the last three days of which were spent in St. Petersburg, Russia. There we met the missionaries with the members and attended a fireside for members and investigators. We held two days of meetings with the leaders of the priesthood of the district and the branches there. While that is a different world, it is the same world. I was reminded of how important the little things are in our lives.
We were invited to the office of Vladimir P. Yakovlev, who is the deputy mayor of St. Petersburg, to have lunch with him. The first thing he said through an interpreter was: “You don’t need to tell me about your church or about your beliefs. I know about you, your people. Thirty years ago,” he said, “I was on a cultural exchange in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and I stayed for two months in the home of Timothy and Dorthea Smith. I saw them and their family. I went to the meetings with them.”
He said, “I just read the reports.” It happens, incidentally, that in that city of five million, among his other duties he has the responsibility for advising on all matters relating to religion. He said, “The reports show that you will do something, you will do it. When you say you will not do something, you will not do it. You are a people who can be trusted.”
I told him we would try to find Timothy and Dorthea Smith. I haven’t as yet had the opportunity. He said he would like to get in touch with them again.
Who would have supposed that thirty years ago in that chance encounter members of the Church, just behaving themselves, would influence a man who now is in a very crucial position to affect the onrolling of the work of the Lord in that great city which only a short time ago was behind the Iron Curtain? (Boyd K. Packer, Memorable Stories with a Message [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2000], 69–70)
SUMMARY
When the Savior visited the Saints in ancient America following His Resurrection, He provided His disciples with the consummate counsel for the unending process of self-perfection and covenant service: “Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am” (3 Ne. 27:27). We are to emulate His perfect example. It is the pinnacle of the “godly walk and conversation” (D&C 20:69) we are striving to acquire and practice. Let us all be committed to the process of improving our lives in conformity with divine example. Let us also strive to exhibit the best possible example to others.
♦
FAITH
“Faith is the first principle of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the governing principle in applying the Atonement to our lives. How can we strengthen our faithful conviction that the Lord will guide us to the honest seekers of truth and inspire us with words that will engender greater faith and hope in their hearts and minds? How can we be more effective in sharing with our listeners the revealed promises of the Lord: “Whatsoever ye shall ask in faith, being united in prayer according to my command, ye shall receive” (D&C 29:6).”
Faith is the first principle of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We learn that it is impossible to please God except with faith (see Heb. 11:6). Faith, then, becomes that which we must possess in order not only to gain eternal life, but also to do the will of God while we are on the earth. In Hebrews 11 and Alma 32 we learn that faith is a hope for something that we do not see. Too often we end faith in this hopeful and believing stage. The Prophet Joseph Smith, in the Lectures on Faith, described the three degrees of faith. The first degree is the substance of things hoped for (see Lectures on Faith, 1:7–8). Of the second degree, the Prophet Joseph said, “Faith is the moving cause of all action in intelligent beings” (Lectures on Faith, 1:12). The third degree of faith is the principle and source of power (see Lectures on Faith, 1:15). When all three degrees are applied, faith is exercised to its fullest. The Prophet went on to say: “Faith, then, is the first great governing principle which has power, dominion, and authority over all things; by it they exist, by it they are upheld, by it they are changed or by it they remain agreeable to the will of God” (Lectures on Faith, 1:24)
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Luke 17:5. And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.
Not only is our faith in Christ, but it comes from Him. As did the early Apostles, we can approach the Lord and ask Him to strengthen our faith. If the Apostles of the Lord needed an increase in faith, how much more do we need more faith in our lives.
Hebrews 11:6. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
As the children of God, our desires are to please Him and do His will. Recognizing this fact makes having and exercising faith in God and the Lord Jesus Christ paramount in our lives.
Mosiah 18:20. Yea, even he commanded them that they should preach nothing save it were repentance and faith on the Lord, who had redeemed his people.
In the Book of Mormon the prophets urged the teachers to preach the doctrine of faith and repentance to the point that this was the emphasis in their teaching (see also Mosiah 25:22).
Alma 32:27. But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words.
As stated above, the first part of faith is hope, a desire to believe. Following the analogy given in Alma 32 of planting a seed, as we nurture and cultivate this hope and desire, it will grow into a powerful conviction.
Alma 34:15–17. And thus he shall bring salvation to all those who shall believe on his name; this being the intent of this last sacrifice, to bring about the bowels of mercy, which overpowereth justice, and bringeth about means unto men that they may have faith unto repentance. And thus mercy can satisfy the demands of justice, and encircles them in the arms of safety, while he that exercises no faith unto repentance is exposed to the whole law of the demands of justice; therefore only unto him that has faith unto repentance is brought about the great and eternal plan of redemption. Therefore may God grant unto you, my brethren, that ye may begin to exercise your faith unto repentance, that ye begin to call upon his holy name, that he would have mercy upon you.
Faith can allow us to do all things according to the will of God. The most important thing we will ever do in our lives is to repent and come unto Christ with full purpose of heart. The thing that will be of most worth to us and bring us true joy is to help others repent (see Alma 29:9–10; D&C 15:6; 18:10–16).
Hebrews 11, Alma 32, Ether 12, Moroni 7.
All the scriptures (as we search and feast upon the word) will increase our faith. The chapters cited above are rich in the doctrine and principle of faith in God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Search the Topical Guide for additional scriptures specific to faith.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
Joseph Fielding Smith:
Let it be uppermost in your minds, now and at all times, that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, who came into the world to lay down his life that we might live. That is the truth and is fundamental. Upon that our faith is built. It cannot be destroyed. (Doctrines of Salvation, 3 vols., edited by Bruce R. McConkie [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954–1956], 2:302)
Ezra Taft Benson:
Now let me describe to you what faith in Jesus Christ means. Faith in Him is more than mere acknowledgment that He lives. It is more than professing belief. Faith in Jesus Christ consists of complete reliance on Him. As God, He has infinite power, intelligence, and love. There is no human problem beyond His capacity to solve. Because He descended below all things, He knows how to help us rise above our daily difficulties. (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], 66)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
If there is any one thing you and I need in this world it is faith, that dynamic, powerful, marvelous element by which, as Paul declared, the very worlds were framed (Hebrews 11:3). . . . Faith—the kind of faith that moves one to get on his knees and plead with the Lord and then get on his feet and go to work—is an asset beyond compare, even in the acquisition of secular knowledge. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 186)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Here are five ideas to consider as we study and seek to increase our faith:
1. Faith is a doctrine of principle and power.
● Creative power—The earth was created by the power of faith (see Heb. 11:3).
● Priesthood power—The power of the priesthood is faith. The powers of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and can be worked only through the principles of righteousness (see D&C 121:36).
● The power to achieve righteousness—Faith is the foundation of all righteousness (see Lectures on Faith 1:10)
● Godly power—Faith is an attribute of God and dwells independently in Him (see Lectures on Faith 2:2).
2. Faith is the governing principle in the lives of all just men and women.
● Faith as the compass of life—Just men and women live by faith (see Hab. 2:4; Rom. 1:16; Gal. 3:11).
● Faith as the key to perfection—We learn that “just” or faithful men are made perfect (see D&C 76:69).
● Faith as the partner of grace—We are justified by our faith by the Spirit through the grace of our Savior Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice (Rom. 3:28; 5:l).
3. Remember that faith is the source of myriad blessings in our lives.
● Shield against evil—Faith is the shield of protection from the fiery darts of the adversary (see Eph. 6:16).
● Key to good works—Faith is evidenced by our works (see James 2:18).
● Deliverance from guilt—Enos, the great prophet, exercised faith unto repentance, and his guilt was swept away (see Enos 1:8).
● The doorway to receiving the Spirit—By faith the prophet Lehi received the blessing and the gift of the Holy Ghost. Living by the Spirit comes through faith (see 1 Ne. 10:17).
● Instrumentality of miracles—Healing the sick and similar miracles occur by the power of faith (see James 5:15; 2 Ne. 26:13).
● Divine guidance—The Liahona worked by faith, diligence, and giving heed to the word. Receiving direction in life depends on the faith we exercise (see 1 Nephi 16:28).
● Strength—Faith gives us strength (see Alma 2:30; 14:26), and it can do all things.
● Spiritual vitality—We are alive in Christ through faith (see 2 Ne. 25:25).
● Power of expression—We become mighty in word, able to preach the word through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (see Ether 12:23).
● Communion with God’s messengers—Angels appear through faith on the Lord Jesus Christ; miracles are wrought through faith (see Moro. 7:37).
● Power of learning—Learn comes through faith (see D&C 88:118).
● Fulfilling God’s will—By faith we can do all things that are expedient in the Lord (see 2 Nephi 1:10; Moroni 7:33).
● Divine assistance—We pray, exercising faith with real intent, and the Lord will send angels (see Mosiah 27:13–14), whether mortal or immortal.
● Power of conversion—It was faith that Nephi and Lehi used to cause a great change among the Lamanites (Ether 12:14).
● Key to the ministry—We must remember that faith is necessary in order that God the Father and Jesus Christ can work through us, for They work only with those who exercise faith (Ether 12:30).
● Power of goodness—Faith is that principle that moves us to do good always (Alma 29:4).
4. The Lord opens the way for us to acquire and increase our faith.
● Hearing the word—Faith comes by hearing the word of God (see Rom. 10:17). We hear the word of God from living prophets, by the power of the Holy Ghost (see D&C 68:3–4), and from searching the word of God in the scriptures. We must ponder and meditate upon the scriptures. In studying and searching the word of God, we gain faith.
● Fasting and prayer—Second, faith comes by fasting and prayer: “They did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith” (Hel. 3:35). Faith is a great blessing, but we must pay a price of fasting and prayer. We can fast every fast Sunday and on other special occasions that we might increase in our faith.
● Love—Faith comes and works through love, which is the motivating cause of all righteous deeds. The motivation of God’s work is His love for us (see John 3:16). The motivation for Christ’s Atonement and His great service is His love for us (see 2 Ne. 26:24). Faith works according to our love (see Gal. 5:6). Not only is love the great commandment (see Matt. 22:36–40), it motivates faith, which is a gift from God through righteousness (see 1 Cor. 12:9).
● Humility—All spiritual growth begins with humility. Humility is having and understanding our relationship to God the Father and Jesus Christ and our dependence upon Them. They are the objects upon which our faith rests, the figures in whom our faith is centered (see Lectures on Faith 2:23)
5. Remember that faith grows as we exercise it in our daily living. How can we now use this power that can move mountains, this power that brought the mighty change among the Lamanites, this power that created the earth, this power that causes us to move to action? We must use our faith to accomplish our purpose here upon the earth.
6. Develop a plan of action based on faith— We need goals and a plan of action. We need to exercise faith in practice, not just in concept. As we learn in Alma 32, we need to cultivate our desire to have faith, to have a testimony. We should set our course to include goals that will increase our faith (studying the word of God, paying tithes, praying, etc.). As we cultivate this faith, it will take root and deepen (see John 7:17).
7. Move our minds in faithful channels— Having our mind focused on the values and purposes of God, we begin to exercise faith to accomplish our goals. How does this happen? The Prophet Joseph Smith said that faith is exercised through mental exertion (Lectures on Faith 7:3). In mentally thinking on these things, exerting the power of our minds, acting with every fiber of our being, we exert so much power that when we speak, things come to pass (see Jacob 4:9). The power of God is exercised by the word of God as inspired by the power of the Holy Ghost. Mental exertion requires pondering and focusing of our minds and hearts with real intent. It is through this effort that our prayers are heard and answered, and we are forgiven of our sins (see Enos 1:3–8).
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIME
In the following story, told by Hugh B. Brown, we see the courage and steadfastness of a woman who had unshakeable faith. This woman’s testimony and eternal perspective lifted her in her time of need.
Are You in Trouble?
I should like to introduce a story coming out of the first world war. I had a companion, a fellow officer, who was a very rich man, highly educated. He was a lawyer, had great power, was self-sufficient, and he said to me as we often talked of religion (because he knew who I was), “There is nothing in life that I would like to have that I cannot buy with my money.”
Shortly thereafter he and I with two other officers were assigned to go to the city of Arras, France, which was under siege. It had been evacuated, and upon arrival there we thought there was no one in the city. We noted that the fire of the enemy was concentrated on the cathedral. We made our way to that cathedral and went in. There we found a little woman kneeling at an altar. We paused, respecting her devotion. Then shortly she arose, wrapped her little shawl around her frail shoulders, and came tottering down the aisle. The man among us who could speak better French said, “Are you in trouble?”
She straightened her shoulders, pulled in her chin, and said, “No, I’m not in trouble. I was in trouble when I came here, but I’ve left it there at the altar.”
“And what was your trouble?”
She said, “I received word this morning that my fifth son has given his life for France. Their father went first, and then one by one all of them have gone. But,” straightening again, “I have no trouble; I’ve left it there because I believe in the immortality of the soul. I believe that men will live after death. I know that I shall meet my loved ones again.”
When the little soul went out, there were tears in the eyes of the men who were there, and the one who had said to me that he could purchase anything with money turned to me and said, “You and I have seen men in battle display courage and valor that is admirable, but in all my life I have never seen anything to compare with the faith, the fortitude and the courage of that little woman.”
Then he said, “I would give all the money I have if I could have something of what she has.” (Hugh B. Brown, Conference Report, October 1969, 106–107)
SUMMARY
The Lord cautions us to not be of the world. We cannot do the work of the Lord when we are worried about worldly things. We must be focused on the Lord’s work, which is the welfare of His children. That is why we exercise our faith unto repentance, that we might be saved. That is why we exercise our faith in behalf of others, that they might be blessed.
Let us not strive to move all the mountains today; let us just have faith to follow the prophet. Let us not go about trying to heal the entire world or raise the dead; let us have faith enough to move ourselves to action by being a loving parent, a devoted and obedient child, a sensitive neighbor. Let us not exercise our faith to gain the whole world, but rather for the building up of the kingdom of God through love and service to our fellow beings. Through small and simple things, great things come to pass—simply through the exercising of faith (see D&C 64:33). Let us start today with some goals and a plan to increase in our faith that we might be an instrument in the hands of the Lord to bless our family and all mankind.
♦
FAMILY
“Sharing with others the divine purpose of the family in God’s plan of salvation is a gift of the heart, an endowment of joy. Through the sealing power of the priesthood in the House of the Lord, the family can be forever. As representatives of the Lord, we can witness unto our listeners that there is no more valuable legacy for parents to give their children than to teach them to value, search, understand, and heed the word of the God as embodied in the holy scriptures and reflected in the spoken word of God’s living prophets. How can we increase our ability to influence families to accept and live the principles of the gospel and thus enjoy a harvest of “peace in this world and eternal life in the world to come” (D&C 59:23)?”
The basic unit of the Church and society is the family. Whenever civilization struggles, it is often a result of broken homes where values are neither lived nor taught. In today’s world, the family is at risk. Too many people do not protect the rights and values of the family. Families can be successful with committed parents and children. As the gospel teaches, families are forever.
THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US
Colossians 3:20. Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
Parents are to lead and teach (see D&C 68:25–28), While children are to learn and obey. These roles need to be understood and appreciated so that everyone’s attitude will be positive and all family members will be respectful to each other.
Mosiah 4:15. But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another.
Parents are to teach love within the family. Parents have countless duties (see Mosiah 4:4), but among the greatest is the responsibility to show love to their children.
3 Nephi 18:21. Pray in your families unto the Father, always in my name, that your wives and your children may be blessed.
Prayer is the strength of the family. It is a blessing and a protection to all members of the family. Heavenly Father wants families to succeed, and with His help they can.
Doctrine and Covenants 130:2. And that same sociality which exists among us here will exist among us there, only it will be coupled with eternal glory, which glory we do not now enjoy.
If we are not loving families now, we will not be in the eternities. The same sociality will exist there. It is important that we develop a celestial family now if that is what we want in eternity.
MODERN PROPHETS SPEAK
First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed. (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102)
Gordon B. Hinckley:
We are a church which bears testimony of the importance of the family—the father, the mother, the children—and of the fact that we are all children of God our Eternal Father. Parents who bring children into the world have a responsibility to love those children, to nurture them and care for them, to teach them those values which would bless their lives so that they will grow to become good citizens. If there is less trouble in the homes, there will be less trouble in the nations. I want to emphasize that which is already familiar to you, and that is the importance of binding our families together with love and kindness, with appreciation and respect, and with teaching the ways of the Lord so that your children will grow in righteousness and avoid the tragedies which are overcoming so many families across the world. (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1997], 208)
Ezra Taft Benson:
Remember, the family is one of God’s greatest fortresses against the evils of our day. Help keep your family strong and close and worthy of our Father in Heaven’s blessings. As you do, you will receive faith and strength, which will bless your lives forever. (Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1990], 2)
Spencer W. Kimball:
The gospel has been a family affair. By committing ourselves to having the regular and inspirational family home evening and by carefully planning the content of that evening, we are sending a signal to our children which they will remember forevermore. When thus we give our children of our own time, we are giving of our presence, a gift that is always noticed. (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, edited by Edward L. Kimball [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982], 344)
IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING
Incorporating the following can make a difference in your family:
1. Priorities—Make your family your number-one priority in time and effort.
2. Decisions—Equate everything you do with this standard: “Will what I do bless my family?” If it won’t, don’t do it.
3. Service—Look for ways daily to help each member of the family.
4. Praise—Seek to praise and compliment every day.
5. Guidance—Never criticize or condemn a family member—separate the behavior from the person. Help them understand and appreciate what they should do; then their attitude and behavior will change.
6. Cooperation—Competition often breeds problems; therefore, emphasize cooperation.
7. Family council—Meet together in family council regularly to discuss concerns, standards, needs, and solutions and to plan a calendar of things to do together.
8. Safety—Make your home a safe place, a refuge from the world, where love abounds and peace is a hallmark. Your home should not only be a place of physical safety, but of emotional and spiritual safety as well.
9. Learning—Make your home a place of learning—values and standards, life skills, and pursuit of a quality education begin at home. Establish family learning on a bedrock of enduring principles such as trust, love, honesty, accountability, and spiritual truth.
10. Family prayer—Spend time kneeling together in prayer. Implore Heavenly Father for the blessings of heaven to be on your family.
11. Family scripture time—Set a regular time each day to search (not just read) the scriptures together as a family.
12. Family home evening—Hold regular family home evening on Monday nights. Involve the entire family in all of the activities.
13. Family interviews—On a monthly basis visit with each child individually to listen to his or her concerns. Take time to teach, train, nurture, give blessings, and help each child in every way possible.
14. Family traditions—Create special times and places to establish righteous and enjoyable activities that have lasting value in the lives of family members.
15. Being a wise media gatekeeper—Parents have a sacred obligation to ensure that their children are exposed to only those media influences that are uplifting and conducive to righteous patterns of living. (See Elder Ballard’s talk in the November 2003 Ensign for some helpful counsel on the issue of media in the home.)
ILLUSTRATIONS FOR OUR TIME
The following excerpt from an Ensign article by Rex D. Pinegar emphasizes the importance of home and family:
Home First
The Lord, through His prophets, has taught us of the divine power and influence of the home.
“There is no substitute for the home,” said President Joseph F. Smith. “Its foundation is as ancient as the world, and its mission has been ordained of God from the earliest times. . . .
“There can be no genuine happiness separate and apart from the home, and every effort made to sanctify and preserve its influence is uplifting to those who toil and sacrifice for its establishment. There is no happiness without service, and there is no greater service than that which converts the home into a divine institution, and which promotes and preserves family life.” (Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed., Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1939, p. 300.)
On the night of September 21, 1989, Hurricane Hugo passed with all its fury over the beautiful city of Charleston, South Carolina. My good friend Alvie Evans lived in a low-lying area near the water, where the maximum strength of the storm was headed. He gathered his family together and moved to higher ground, to the home of his mother.
Late in the night, 150-mile-per-hour winds raged around them, uprooting trees and ripping away parts of the house. The storm became so severe they began to fear they would experience physical harm. Alvie, with his wife and children, his mother and his brothers and sister and their families, knelt together in the entrance hall of the home and prayed humbly to the Lord, asking for protection and for safety.
The next morning they viewed the devastation. Of the fifty or more large, strong oak trees that had been growing in his mother’s yard, only eight remained standing. There was damage to the house, the cars, the entire city, but the family was safe. The Lord had heard their prayers and had protected them through the storm. Alvie said, “I didn’t know then if we would have a house to return to, but I knew we would always have a home, because our family was intact and secure.”
President David O. McKay once said, “There is nothing temporary in the home of the Latter-day Saint.” (In Conference Report, June 1919, p. 77.)
He also stated: “[One] can have a beautiful house with all the decorations that modern art can give or wealth bestow. [It] can have all the outward forms that will please the eye and yet not [be] a home. . . . It may be a hovel, a log hut, a tent, a wickiup, if you have the right spirit within, the true love of Christ, and love for one another—fathers and mothers for the children, children for parents, husband and wife for each other—you have the true life of the home that Latter-day Saints build and which they are striving to establish.” (Gospel Ideals, Salt Lake City: Improvement Era, 1953, pp. 480–81.)
Today, evil forces are challenging the home as never before. If our homes are to endure, parents and children must dedicate themselves to the gospel ideals that ensure preservation of home and family. (Rex D. Pinegar, “Home First,” Ensign, May 1990, 9)
SUMMARY
The number of things one can do to strengthen the family is limitless. However the only things that are truly essential to strengthen the family are the proper desire, attitude, work ethic, and values—all of which are based on love. We all have observed this in families that are well adjusted and happy. It is up to us to make our families the best they can be, and to never give up in this endeavor. There is no more important mission than to leave behind for your family a legacy of love, harmony, peace, and righteous principles for living.