Providing materially for ourselves, our families, and others is important for our growth and happiness in the gospel. It is an important part of our mission to bring ourselves and others to Christ (see 1 Timothy 5:8; D&C 75:28).
■ “For by the power of my Spirit created I them; yea, all things both spiritual and temporal—
“First spiritual, secondly temporal, which is the beginning of my work; and again, first temporal, and secondly spiritual, which is the last of my work. . . .
“Wherefore, verily I say unto you that all things unto me are spiritual, and not at any time have I given unto you a law which was temporal; neither any man, nor the children of men; neither Adam, your father, whom I created” (D&C 29:31–32, 34).
■ “And behold, all things have their likeness, and all things are created and made to bear record of me, both things which are temporal, and things which are spiritual; things which are in the heavens above, and things which are on the earth, and things which are in the earth, and things which are under the earth, both above and beneath: all things bear record of me” (Moses 6:63).
■ Elder Howard W. Hunter, then of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
“Man distinguishes between the temporal and the spiritual, probably because living in mortality between the spiritual pre-existence and the spiritual life hereafter, he fails to recognize the full significance of his activities during the years he spends on earth. To the Lord everything is both spiritual and temporal, and the laws he gives are consequently spiritual, because they concern spiritual beings.
“Every phase of our life, therefore, becomes the concern of the Church. The great welfare program of the Church demonstrates this principle. The Church is interested in our social and our recreational needs, educational, family life, our business affairs, and all that we do.
“There is no way we can separate the activities of worship on the Sabbath day from the many pursuits of the weekday by calling one religious and the other temporal. Both are spiritual. God has ordained them thus, for they consist of our thoughts and actions as we wend our way through this part of eternity. Thus our business transactions, our daily labors, our trade or profession, or whatever we do become part of living the gospel” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1961, 109).
■ Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “The temporal and the spiritual are linked inseparably. As we give of our time, talents, and resources to tend the needs of the sick, offer food to the hungry, and teach the dependent to stand on their own, we enrich ourselves spiritually beyond our ability to comprehend” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1999, 99; or Ensign, May 1999, 76–77).
■ President Spencer W. Kimball, twelfth President of the Church: “We deal with many things which are thought to be not so spiritual; but all things are spiritual with the Lord, and he expects us to listen, and to obey, and to follow the commandments” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1977, 8; or Ensign, May 1977, 7).
■ Joe J. Christensen, later of the Seventy: “I found great inspiration in a physics class and I discovered additional reverence for creation in a geology course. I shall never forget what I consider the religious educational experience I found in studying Spanish grammar, composition, and literature with one of the most effective and demanding teachers I have ever known at Brigham Young University. Far from being faith-destroying, I discovered that my experiences with psychology and philosophy became for me sources of strength to my faith. And, without embarrassment, I confess that on occasion I became misty-eyed with what I would describe as a spiritual experience by the beauty of some of the choice portions of poetry, literature, and music created by the masters” (“True Education-True Religion,” Ensign, Jan. 1980, 74).
■ “Seek not for riches but for wisdom; and, behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich. Behold, he that hath eternal life is rich” (D&C 11:7).
■ “Then one of them . . . asked . . . ,
“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.
“And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Matthew 22:35–39).
■ Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
“Jesus taught about priorities when He said, ‘Seek not the things of this world but seek ye first to build up the kingdom of God, and to establish his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you’ (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 6:38; in Matthew 6:33; footnote a).
“‘Seek . . . first to build up the kingdom of God’ means to assign first priority to God and to His work. The work of God is to bring to pass the eternal life of His children (see Moses 1:39), and all that this entails in the birth, nurturing, teaching, and sealing of our Heavenly Father’s children. Everything else is lower in priority. . . . As someone has said, if we do not choose the kingdom of God first, it will make little difference in the long run what we have chosen instead of it. . . .
“Our priorities are most visible in how we use our time. Someone has said, ‘Three things never come back-the spent arrow, the spoken word, and the lost opportunity.’ We cannot recycle or save the time allotted to us each day. With time, we have only one opportunity for choice, and then it is gone forever. . . .
“In terms of priorities for each major decision (such as education, occupation, place of residence, marriage, or childbearing), we should ask ourselves, ‘What will be the eternal impact of this decision?’ Some decisions that seem desirable for mortality have unacceptable risks for eternity. In all such choices, we need to have inspired priorities and apply them in ways that will bring eternal blessings to us and to our family members” (in Conference Report, Mar.–Apr. 2001, 108–10; or Ensign, May 2001, 83–84).
■ Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “In quiet moments of reflection, weigh what our Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son have identified as the key priorities of life. Review your own life to make sure that in all respects it is in harmony with them. . . . As I travel through my own country and to other parts of the world, I see the marvelous benefits derived from the distinct cultures that exist. Yet those benefits are sometimes overshadowed by the negative influences that result from those traditions that conflict with the teachings of the Master” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 114; or Ensign, May 1998, 87).
■ Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “When priorities are proper, the power to endure is increased. And when internalized, those priorities will help keep you from ‘going overboard.’ They will protect you from cheating-in marriage, in the Church, and in life” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1997, 99; or Ensign, May 1997, 72).
■ “But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel” (1 Timothy 5:8).
■ “And again, verily I say unto you, that every man who is obliged to provide for his own family, let him provide, and he shall in nowise lose his crown; and let him labor in the church” (D&C 75:28).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley, then First Counselor in the First Presidency:
“Many years ago, President Stephen L. Richards, then a Counselor in the First Presidency, speaking from this pulpit made an eloquent plea to put father back at the head of the family (see Conference Report, Apr. 1958, p. 94). I repeat that plea to all fathers. Yours is the basic and inescapable responsibility to stand as the head of the family. That does not carry with it any implication of dictatorship or unrighteous dominion. It carries with it a mandate that fathers provide for the needs of their families. Those needs are more than food, clothing, and shelter. Those needs include righteous direction and the teaching, by example as well as precept, of basic principles of honesty, integrity, service, respect for the rights of others, and an understanding that we are accountable for that which we do in this life, not only to one another but also to the God of heaven, who is our Eternal Father.
“Let every mother realize that she has no greater blessing than the children who have come to her as a gift from the Almighty; that she has no greater mission than to rear them in light and truth, in understanding and love; that she will have no greater happiness than to see them grow into young men and women who respect principles of virtue, who walk free from the stain of immorality and from the shame of delinquency” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1993, 78–79; or Ensign, Nov. 1993, 59–60).
■ The First Presidency and Council of the Twelve Apostles: “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).
■ President Spencer W. Kimball: “Our Heavenly Father placed the responsibility upon parents to see that their children are well fed, well groomed and clothed, well trained, and well taught. Most parents protect their children with shelter-they tend and care for their diseases, provide clothes for their safety and their comfort, and supply food for their health and growth. But what do they do for their souls?” (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 332; see “Train Up a Child,” Ensign, Apr. 1978, 2).
■ Elder Bruce R. McConkie of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
“Work is the law of life; it is the ruling principle in the lives of Saints. We cannot, while physically able, voluntarily shift the burden of our own support to others. Doles abound in evils. Industry, thrift, and self-respect are essential to salvation.
“We must maintain our own health, sow our own gardens, store our own food, educate and train ourselves to handle the daily affairs of life. No one else can work out our salvation for us, either temporally or spiritually.
“We are here on earth to care for the needs of our family members. Wives have claim on their husbands for their support, children upon their parents, parents upon their children, brothers upon each other, and relatives upon their kin.
“It is the aim of the Church to help the Saints to care for themselves and, where need be, to make food and clothing and other necessities available, lest the Saints turn to the doles and evils of Babylon” (in Conference Report, Mar.–Apr. 1979, 132; or Ensign, May 1979, 93).
When serving his mission, Hans felt closer to the Spirit than ever before in his life. He worked hard and accomplished what he never thought possible before his mission. Now that he is home from his mission, he no longer sets goals and is unsure what to do next.
Some neighbors of yours begin criticizing the Church because they feel it is too restrictive and expects too much of its members. They think that religion should be a Sunday event and is not important during the week. After all, people must live in the world during the week and should not have to worry about spiritual things.
The Lord encourages us to develop our talents and abilities. This often requires patience, self-discipline, and diligent effort. As we progress, we realize more fully our potential and become better at helping others.
■ “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” (Alma 13:3).
■ “I observed that they were also among the noble and great ones who were chosen in the beginning to be rulers in the Church of God.
“Even before they were born, they, with many others, received their first lessons in the world of spirits and were prepared to come forth in the due time of the Lord to labor in his vineyard for the salvation of the souls of men” (D&C 138:55–56).
■ Elder Bruce R. McConkie of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
“All the spirits of men, while yet in the Eternal Presence, developed aptitudes, talents, capacities, and abilities of every sort, kind, and degree. During the long expanse of life which then was, an infinite variety of talents and abilities came into being. As the ages rolled, no two spirits remained alike. Mozart became a musician; Einstein centered his interest in mathematics; Michelangelo turned his attention to painting. . . . Abraham and Moses and all of the prophets sought and obtained the talent for spirituality. . . .
“. . . When we pass from preexistence to mortality, we bring with us the traits and talents there developed. True, we forget what went before because we are here being tested, but the capacities and abilities that then were ours are yet resident within us. Mozart is still a musician; Einstein retains his mathematical abilities; Michelangelo his artistic talent; Abraham, Moses, and the prophets their spiritual talents and abilities. . . . And all men with their infinitely varied talents and personalities pick up the course of progression where they left it off when they left the heavenly realms” (The Mortal Messiah, 4 vols. [1979–81], 1:23, 25).
■ Elder Bruce R. McConkie, then of the Seventy: “In this prior life, this premortal existence, this preexistence, we developed various capacities and talents. Some developed them in one field and some in another. The most important of all fields was the field of spirituality-the ability, the talent, the capacity to recognize truth” (Making Our Calling and Election Sure, Brigham Young University Speeches of the Year [Mar. 25, 1969], 5–6).
■ Elder Joseph Fielding Smith, then of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “During the ages in which we dwelt in the pre-mortal state we not only developed our various characteristics and showed our worthiness and ability, or the lack of it, but we were also where such progress could be observed. . . . Under such conditions it was natural for our Father to discern and choose those who were most worthy and evaluate the talents of each individual” (The Way to Perfection [1970], 50–51).
■ Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “In the premortal world we were taught the Father’s plan of redemption and enjoyed moral agency. Through the use of this agency, men and women developed varying appetites, talents, and capacities over time and no spirits remained the same” (Give Heed unto the Word of the Lord [CES fireside for young adults, May 2, 1999], 2).
■ “For all have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God.
“To some is given one, and to some is given another, that all may be profited thereby” (D&C 46:11–12).
■ “I exhort you, my brethren, that ye deny not the gifts of God, for they are many; and they come from the same God. And there are different ways that these gifts are administered; but it is the same God who worketh all in all; and they are given by the manifestations of the Spirit of God unto men, to profit them” (Moroni 10:8).
■ Elder Marvin J. Ashton of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
“One of the great tragedies of life, it seems to me, is when a person classifies himself as someone who has no talents or gifts. When, in disgust or discouragement, we allow ourselves to reach depressive levels of despair because of our demeaning self-appraisal, it is a sad day for us and a sad day in the eyes of God. For us to conclude that we have no gifts when we judge ourselves by stature, intelligence, grade-point average, wealth, power, position, or external appearance is not only unfair but unreasonable. . . .
“God has given each of us one or more special talents. . . . It is up to each of us to search for and build upon the gifts which God has given. We must remember that each of us is made in the image of God, that there are no unimportant persons. Everyone matters to God and to his fellowmen. . . .
“. . . Taken at random, let me mention a few gifts that are not always evident or noteworthy but that are very important . . . :
“. . . The gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost.
“We must remember that to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God. It is our right and responsibility to accept our gifts and to share them” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 23; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20).
■ President James E. Faust of the First Presidency: “We must recognize that our natural gifts and abilities are limited, but when augmented by inspiration and guidance of the Holy Ghost, our potential increases manyfold. You need help from a power beyond your own to do something extraordinarily useful. You young [people] can have opportunities and receive blessings beyond your wildest dreams and expectations. Your future may not hold fame or fortune, but it can be something far more lasting and fulfilling. Remember that what we do in life echoes in eternity” (in Conference Report, Apr. 2002, 56; or Ensign, May 2002, 47–48).
■ Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
“Place the Savior, His teachings, and His church at the center of your life. Make sure that all decisions comply with this standard.
“This principle will see you through periods of testing and growth. Upward growth occurs in cycles that build upon each other in an ascending spiral of capacity and understanding. They are often not easy, but they are always beneficial. As you walk the path of righteousness, you will grow in strength, understanding, and self-esteem. You will discover hidden talents and unknown capacities. The whole course of your life may be altered for your happiness and the Lord’s purposes” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1991, 43; or Ensign, May 1991, 34).
■ “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness” (Isaiah 41:10).
■ “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5 [Scripture Mastery, Proverbs 3:5–6]).
■ Elder Richard G. Scott:
“In many ways, the world is like a jungle, with dangers that can harm or mutilate your body, enslave or destroy your mind, or decimate your morality. It was intended that life be a challenge, not so that you would fail, but that you might succeed through overcoming. You face on every hand difficult but vitally important decisions. There is an array of temptations, destructive influences, and camouflaged dangers, the like of which no previous generation has faced. I am persuaded that today no one, no matter how gifted, strong, or intelligent, will avoid serious problems without seeking the help of the Lord.
“I repeat: Don’t face the world alone. Trust in the Lord” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1989, 47; or Ensign, May 1989, 36).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley, fifteenth President of the Church:
“Once upon a time, a very long time ago, I was your age. . . . I worried about school and where it would lead. It was the season of the terrible economic depression. I worried about how to earn a living. . . .
“Now, here you are on the threshold of your mature lives. You too worry about school. You worry about marriage. You worry about many things. I make you a promise that God will not forsake you if you will walk in His paths with the guidance of His commandments.
“This is the age of great opportunity. You are so fortunate to be alive. Never in the history of mankind has life been filled with so many opportunities and challenges” (“A Prophet’s Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” Ensign, Jan. 2001, 2; or New Era, Jan. 2001, 6–7).
■ Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Ask your Heavenly Father to bless you with faith and courage, and He will help you endure any challenges you may face. He will help you overcome loneliness, feelings of desperation and hopelessness, setbacks of a personal, emotional, financial, and even spiritual nature; or will strengthen you when you are simply feeling overwhelmed by all of the demands for your time and attention. He will give you the ability to serve faithfully in every assignment you receive from your local Church leaders. Your faith and your knowledge of the restoration of the gospel will give you the strength to be faithful and true to the covenants you have made with the Lord, and to share your strengths and talents gladly to build up the Kingdom of God here on the Earth! Brothers and sisters, your testimony of Jesus Christ is the most important anchor that you can have to help hold you, steadfast and immovable, to principles of righteousness, regardless of the challenges and temptations that may come in the future” (Anchor to the Soul [CES fireside for young adults, Sept. 6, 1992], 4; see “Steadfast in Christ,” Ensign, Dec. 1993, 51–52).
■ “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;
“For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward” (D&C 58:27–28 [Scripture Mastery, D&C 58:26–27]).
■ The Prophet Joseph Smith: “When the Master in the Savior’s parable of the stewards called his servants before him he gave them several talents to improve on while he should tarry abroad for a little season, and when he returned he called for an accounting. So it is now. Our Master is absent only for a little season, and at the end of it He will call each to render an account; and where the five talents were bestowed, ten will be required; and he that has made no improvement will be cast out as an unprofitable servant, while the faithful will enjoy everlasting honors” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 68).
■ President James E. Faust: “Some of you may think that you will discover your strengths and abilities by living on the edge. Perhaps you also think it is a way to find your identity or manliness. Your identity, however, cannot be found from thrill seeking, such as intentionally and unnecessarily exposing your life or your soul to any kind of danger, physical or moral. There will always be enough risks that will come to you naturally without your having to seek them out. Your strength and identity will come from honoring your priesthood, developing your talents, and serving the Lord. Each of you will have to work very hard to qualify for your eternal potential. It will not be easy. Finding your true identity will tax your ability far beyond climbing a dangerous cliff or speeding in a car or on a motorcycle. It will require all of your strength, stamina, intelligence, and courage” (in Conference Report, Sept.–Oct. 1995, 61; or Ensign, Nov. 1995, 46).
Read the parable of the talents found in Matthew 25:14–30. Explain what happened to the different servants and why.
Yia has had a difficult week. School is not going well. His family is not happy about him joining the Church several months ago. His friends at work avoid him since he joined the Church because he stopped doing things with them that compromised his standards. He is considering changing jobs but feels that his qualifications are not strong. He fears the future.
Establishing the kingdom of God on earth has been the purpose of every gospel dispensation. The kingdom of God on earth is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The kingdom exists wherever there are members of the Church. We help establish the kingdom as we seek to become pure in heart (see D&C 97:21), obey God’s commandments, and serve with dedication. The Lord counseled: “Seek not the things of this world but seek ye first to build up the kingdom of God, and to establish his righteousness” (JST, Matthew 6:38).
■ “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).
■ “Keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion.
“Behold, I speak unto you, and also to all those who have desires to bring forth and establish this work” (D&C 12:6–7).
■ Elder Ezra Taft Benson, then of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “My brethren, may we prepare, as elders in Israel, to help enlarge and to strengthen the boundaries of Zion, enlarge her stakes, and build up the kingdom. God expects us to arise and shine because we are the salt of the earth, the light of the world, and I believe the hope of the world because we are the stewards of the revealed truth of God” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1955, 49).
■ Elder Bruce D. Porter of the Seventy: “Personal prayer, study, and pondering are vital to building the kingdom within our own souls. It is in quiet moments of contemplation and communion with the Almighty that we come to know and love Him as our Father” (in Conference Report, Mar.–Apr. 2001, 105; or Ensign, May 2001, 81).
■ Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “When we understand our baptismal covenant and the gift of the Holy Ghost, it will change our lives and establish our total allegiance to the kingdom of God. When temptations come our way, if we will listen, the Holy Ghost will remind us that we have promised to remember our Savior and obey the commandments of God” (in Conference Report, Oct. 2000, 5; or Ensign, Nov. 2000, 7).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley, fifteenth President of the Church: “Personal testimony is the factor which turns people around in their living as they come into this Church. This is the element which motivates the membership to forsake all in the service of the Lord. This is the quiet, encouraging voice which sustains without pause those who walk in faith down to the last days of their lives” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 90; or Ensign, May 1998, 69).
■ “And the church did meet together oft, to fast and to pray, and to speak one with another concerning the welfare of their souls.
“And they did meet together oft to partake of bread and wine, in remembrance of the Lord Jesus.
“And they were strict to observe that there should be no iniquity among them” (Moroni 6:5–7).
■ Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Over the years, my active participation in the Church has provided me access to the counsel and inspiration of the leaders of the Church on things I should do as a husband and father and leader in my family. Again and again, in stake and general conferences, in priesthood quorums, and in Sunday School classes, I have been taught and inspired by wonderful and experienced fathers, mothers, and grandparents.
“I have sought to follow those teachings to improve my participation in those associations that will persist for eternity” (in Conference Report, Apr. 2002, 40; or Ensign, May 2002, 35).
■ President Thomas S. Monson of the First Presidency: “Long years ago, Joseph Lyon of Salt Lake City shared with me the lesson of a lecture which a minister from another faith observed. . . . [He related] what I’ve called the ‘hot coals’ story. He described a warm fireplace where the pieces of wood had burned brightly, with the embers still glowing and giving off heat. He then observed that by taking in hand brass tongs, he could remove one of the hot embers. That ember would then slowly pale in light and turn black. No longer would it glow. No longer would it warm. He then pointed out that by returning the black, cold ember to the bed of living coals, the dark ember would begin to glow and brighten and warm. He concluded: ‘People are somewhat like the coals of a fire. Should they absent themselves from the warmth and spirit of the active church membership, they will not contribute to the whole, but in their isolation will be changed. As with the embers removed from the heat of the fire, as they distance themselves from the intensity of the spirit generated by the active membership, they will lose that warmth and spirit.’” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1997, 66; or Ensign, Nov. 1997, 47–48).
■ Elder Robert L. Backman of the Seventy advised that we set a goal to always stay active in the Church:
“[Church activity] will provide an anchor for you like nothing else on earth, for it will give you the opportunity to discover for yourself the real meaning of happiness. It will assure you that, no matter where you go, you belong-for you have brothers and sisters who love you and sustain you. You will know something of the brotherhood of the gospel of Jesus Christ: you will become acquainted with him as your Savior; and you will keep your testimony burning brightly.
“Consider what such [a goal] will do for you. When temptations come, as they surely will, you are going to be prepared. You will have made the choice in advance. . . . ‘I am always going to be active in God’s Church!’ . . . When you make [this basic decision] in advance, think how many other decisions are already made: living the Word of Wisdom, keeping morally clean, attending your meetings, paying tithing, studying the gospel, and so forth. You will not compromise on any important principle. You will be in control of your life, and you will enjoy the peace and serenity that come with keeping the commandments of God” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1980, 62; or Ensign, Nov. 1980, 42).
■ President Ezra Taft Benson, thirteenth President of the Church: “Be an example in your Church activity-honor the Sabbath day, attend your meetings, observe the Word of Wisdom, pay your tithes and offerings, support your leaders, and otherwise keep the commandments. Serve cheerfully and gratefully in every calling you receive. Live worthy of a temple recommend and enjoy the sweet, sacred spirit that comes from frequent temple attendance” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1988, 57; or Ensign, May 1988, 51).
■ President David O. McKay, ninth President of the Church: “In the Church, increased participation in church activity indicates a desire to be a partaker of spirituality, the highest acquisition of the soul, and young people desire it” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1961, 7).
■ “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 [Scripture Mastery]).
■ Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “I applaud the efforts of Latter-day Saints throughout the world who willingly serve in building the kingdom of God. Likewise, I respect those who quietly do their duty though deepening trials come their way” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1988, 37; or Ensign, May 1988, 33).
■ Elder Marvin J. Ashton of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Some callings and assignments in the Church may seem insignificant and unimportant at the time, but with each willingly fulfilled assignment, love of the Lord will grow. We learn to love God as we serve and know Him” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1981, 31; or Ensign, May 1981, 24).
■ President Boyd K. Packer, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “I see two kinds of service: one, the service we render when we are called to serve in the Church; the other, the service we willingly give to those around us because we are taught to care” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1997, 5; or Ensign, Nov. 1997, 6).
■ Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Every member can give his time and talents freely to the building up of the kingdom of God upon the earth. No member of the Church should miss this opportunity to exercise his faith and feel the spirit that comes from humble sacrifice. Seeing the great good that the Saints in South America do with their meager means helps me realize how much more many of us in other parts of the world could do. We should never forget the Savior’s teaching: ‘Unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required’ (Luke 12:48). He has blessed us abundantly” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 99; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 81).
■ “Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work;
“For behold the field is white already to harvest; and lo, he that thrusteth in his sickle with his might, the same layeth up in store that he perisheth not, but bringeth salvation to his soul” (D&C 4:3–4).
■ “For thus saith the Lord-I, the Lord, am merciful and gracious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and in truth unto the end.
“Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their glory” (D&C 76:5–6).
■ Elder Dale E. Miller of the Seventy: “As we invest our time, talents, and means to build Zion, our hearts are purified, our wisdom increases, celestial habits begin to form, and the Holy Spirit prepares us to receive the presence of the Father and the Son. By thrusting in our sickles, we reap a double portion-for ourselves and for the kingdom” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 37; or Ensign, May 1998, 30).
■ President Marion G. Romney of the First Presidency: “I remember that a long time ago, over sixty years in fact, when Elder Melvin J. Ballard laid his hands on my head and set me apart to go on a mission, he said in the blessing he gave me that a person could not give a crust to the Lord without receiving a loaf in return. And that has been my experience” (“The Blessings of the Fast,” Ensign, July 1982, 2).
■ Elder Derek A. Cuthbert of the Seventy:
“Service changes people. It refines, purifies, gives a finer perspective, and brings out the best in each one of us. It gets us looking outward instead of inward. It prompts us to consider others’ needs ahead of our own. Righteous service is the expression of true charity, such as the Savior showed. . . .
“. . . Service helps us establish true values and priorities by distinguishing between the worth of material things that pass and those things of lasting, even eternal, value. . . .
“. . . Service helps us establish a righteous tradition. . . .
“. . . Service helps us overcome selfishness and sin. . . .
“. . . Service helps us generate love and appreciation. We come to know people by serving them-their circumstances, their challenges, their hopes and aspirations. . . .
“. . . Service is the principal way of showing gratitude to the Savior. . . .
“. . . Service channels our desires and energies into righteous activity. . . .
“. . . Service helps us cleanse ourselves and become purified and sanctified. . . .
“. . . Righteous service brings us nearer to Christ, increases our spirituality, and brings others likewise. Such service is helping to prepare a people worthy, in the Lord’s due time, to redeem Zion” (in Conference Report, Mar.–Apr. 1990, 12–14; or Ensign, May 1990, 12–13).
■ Elder Dale E. Miller:
“Brothers and sisters, thrusting in our sickles to help build the Lord’s kingdom should be the prime focus of our lives. It seems reasonable to suggest that we each agreed to that in our premortal life. The key decisions pertaining to education, career, marriage, and the very use of our time, talent, and means should prayerfully hinge on how best we serve the Master, building His kingdom and becoming perfected in Him.
“Our work in building up Zion takes several forms. In one context, Zion is geographic, having a center while enlarging its boundaries to eventually fill the earth. We enlarge Zion’s borders as we share the gospel with others. That is part of our job here.
“Another context shows Zion as an organization wherein we work to strengthen its stakes through our callings. Each stake, in turn, pushes deep into the gospel soil, providing a defense and a refuge so followers of Christ might stand with confidence against the snares of the adversary. Stakes create the foundation culture for perfecting God’s people on earth” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 37; or Ensign, May 1998, 29).
Frank worked hard on his mission and felt that he represented the Lord well through his service and commitment to keeping the mission rules. Since his mission he has not felt as motivated to keep the commandments and has not felt the Spirit of the Lord for some time. He wonders why it seems that the Lord’s influence was so strong on his mission and so far away now. After all, he helped build the Lord’s kingdom by what he did on his mission. He feels that now it is somebody else’s turn to serve, and he should just get married and move on with his life.
Cindy sits in the congregation one Sunday looking at her bishop on the stand. He has served diligently for several years. She wonders why he has been so willing to give so much of his life in this service.
“As disciples of Christ, we should give of ourselves-our time, talents, and resources-to care for those in need. We are better able to fulfill this responsibility if we are striving to become self-reliant, for we cannot give what we do not have. When we wisely use those things that the Lord gives us, we become more able to give to the Lord’s work and provide for others” (Providing in the Lord’s Way: A Leader’s Guide to Welfare [1990], 3).
With Heavenly Father’s help, we can face the challenges of our mortal lives with confidence and peace of mind and become self-reliant in the Lord’s way. This includes recognizing that we need the Lord’s help in all things.
■ “O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. . . .
“Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh” (2 Nephi 4:34–35).
■ “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6 [Scripture Mastery]).
■ Elder Bruce R. McConkie, then of the Seventy:
“Properly understood and practiced, self-reliance is a desirable saintly virtue; when it leaves the Lord out of the picture, however, it becomes a vice that leads men from the paths of righteousness. The saints, for instance, should have confidence in their own abilities, efforts, and judgments to make a living, to increase in faith and the attributes of godliness, to work out their salvation, to pass all the tests of this mortal probation. They should know that the Lord has not placed his children in positions beyond their capacities to cope with, that the normal trials and tribulations of life are part of the eternal system. Ordinarily members of the Church should make their own personal decisions, using the agency the Almighty has given them, without running to their bishops or others for direction.
“But with it all, man of himself is not wholly self-sufficient. He is not to trust solely in his own strength, nor in the arm of flesh. The Lord is his Counselor and Deliverer, upon whom he must rely for guidance, direction, and inspiration. If the great Creator had not stepped forward to redeem the creatures of his creating, the whole plan of salvation would be void and the most perfect manifestations of self-reliance would have no worth” (Mormon Doctrine, 2nd ed. [1966], 701–2).
■ Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Ask your Heavenly Father to bless you with faith and courage, and He will help you endure any challenges you may face. He will help you overcome loneliness, feelings of desperation and hopelessness, setbacks of a personal, emotional, financial, and even spiritual nature; or will strengthen you when you are simply feeling overwhelmed by all of the demands for your time and attention. He will give you the ability to serve faithfully in every assignment you receive from your local Church leaders. Your faith and your knowledge of the restoration of the gospel will give you the strength to be faithful and true to the covenants you have made with the Lord, and to share your strengths and talents gladly to build up the Kingdom of God here on the Earth! Brothers and sisters, your testimony of Jesus Christ is the most important anchor that you can have to help hold you, steadfast and immovable, to principles of righteousness, regardless of the challenges and temptations that may come in the future” (Anchor to the Soul [CES fireside for young adults, Sept. 6, 1992], 4).
■ Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Use your ingenuity, your strength, your might to resolve your challenges. Do all you can do and then leave the rest to the Lord. President Howard W. Hunter said: ‘If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and His teachings, no other success can ever be permanently right’ [The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, ed. Clyde J. Williams (1997), 40]” (in Conference Report, Apr. 2000, 74–75; or Ensign, May 2000, 61).
■ Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Independence and self-reliance are critical to our spiritual and temporal growth. Whenever we get into situations which threaten our self-reliance, we will find our freedoms threatened as well. If we increase our dependence on anything or anyone except the Lord, we will find an immediate decrease in our freedom to act. As President Heber J. Grant declared, ‘Nothing destroys the individuality of a man, a woman, or a child as much as the failure to be self-reliant’ (“Address,” Relief Society Magazine, Oct. 1937, p. 627)” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1991, 88; or Ensign, Nov. 1991, 64–65).
■ “I will consecrate of the riches of those who embrace my gospel among the Gentiles unto the poor of my people who are of the house of Israel” (D&C 42:39).
■ President Spencer W. Kimball, twelfth President of the Church: “Work brings happiness, self-esteem, and prosperity. It is the means of all accomplishment; it is the opposite of idleness. We are commanded to work. (See Gen. 3:19.) Attempts to obtain our temporal, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being by means of a dole violate the divine mandate that we should work for what we receive. Work should be the ruling principle in the lives of our Church membership. (See D&C 42:42; 75:29; 68:30–32; 56:87.)” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1977, 124; or Ensign, Nov. 1977, 77; see “The Lord Called His People Zion,” Ensign, Aug. 1984, 4).
■ President Spencer W. Kimball:
“The responsibility for each person’s social, emotional, spiritual, physical, or economic well-being rests first upon himself, second upon his family, and third upon the Church if he is a faithful member thereof.
“No true Latter-day Saint, while physically or emotionally able will voluntarily shift the burden of his own or his family’s well-being to someone else. So long as he can, under the inspiration of the Lord and with his own labors, he will supply himself and his family with the spiritual and temporal necessities of life. (See 1 Timothy 5:8.)” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1977, 124; or Ensign, Nov. 1977, 77–78).
■ Elder Harold B. Lee, then of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
“If you want the blessing, don’t just kneel down and pray about it. Prepare yourselves in every conceivable way you can in order to make yourselves worthy to receive the blessing you seek.
“Brigham Young illustrated this when he said, ‘You may go to some people here and ask them what ails them, and they say, “I don’t know but we’ve got a dreadful distress in the stomach and in the back and we feel all out of order and we wish you would lay your hands on us.”‘ He said to these people, ‘Have you used any of the remedies?’-meaning herbs or whatever the pioneers had. ‘No,’ they said, ‘we wish the elders to lay hands upon us; we have faith that we should be healed.’ President Young said, ‘Now, that is very inconsistent according to my faith. If we are sick and ask the Lord to heal us and to do all for us that is necessary, according to my understanding of the gospel of salvation, I might as well ask the Lord to cause my wheat and corn to grow without my plowing the ground and casting the seed. It appears consistent to me to apply every remedy that comes within the range of my knowledge and then ask my Father in Heaven in the name of Jesus Christ to sanctify that application to the healing of my body.
“‘But,’ he continued, ‘suppose we were traveling in the mountains and all we could get in the shape of nourishment was a little venison and one or two were taken sick without anything in the world in the shape of healing medicine within our reach, what should we then do? According to my faith, ask the Lord God Almighty to send an angel to heal the sick. This is our privilege.’
“When we are so situated that we cannot get anything to help ourselves, then we may call upon the Lord and his servants who can do all. But it is our duty to do what we can within our own power” (“How to Receive a Blessing from God,” Improvement Era, Oct. 1966, 896).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley, fifteenth President of the Church: “We are carrying a message of self-reliance throughout the Church. Self-reliance cannot [be obtained] when there is serious debt hanging over a household. One has neither independence nor freedom from bondage when he is obligated to others” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1998, 71; or Ensign, Nov. 1998, 53).
■ Elder Boyd K. Packer of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
“We seem to be developing an epidemic of ‘counselitis’ which drains spiritual strength from the Church, much like the common cold drains more strength out of humanity than any other disease.
“That, some may assume, is not serious. It is very serious!
“On one hand, we counsel bishops to avoid abuses in welfare help. On the other hand, some bishops dole out counsel and advice without considering that the member should solve the problem himself.
“There are many chronic cases-individuals who endlessly seek counsel but do not follow the counsel that is given.
“I have, on occasions, included in an interview this question:
“‘You have come to me for advice. After we have carefully considered your problem, is it your intention to follow the counsel that I will give you?’
“This comes as a considerable surprise to them. They had never thought of that. Usually they then commit themselves to follow counsel. . . .
“We have become very anxious over the amount of counseling that we seem to need in the Church. Our members are becoming dependent.
“We must not set up a network of counseling services without at the same time emphasizing the principle of emotional self-reliance and individual independence” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1978, 137; or Ensign, May 1978, 91–92).
■ “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;
“For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward” (D&C 58:27–28 [Scripture Mastery, D&C 58:26–27]).
■ The Prophet Joseph Smith: “We consider that God has created man with a mind capable of instruction, and a faculty which may be enlarged in proportion to the heed and diligence given to the light communicated from heaven to the intellect; and that the nearer man approaches perfection, the clearer are his views, and the greater his enjoyments, till he has overcome the evils of his life and lost every desire for sin; and like the ancients, arrives at that point of faith where he is wrapped in the power and glory of his Maker, and is caught up to dwell with Him. But we consider that this is a station to which no man ever arrived in a moment” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 51).
■ Bishop Robert D. Hales, then Presiding Bishop of the Church: “Today we are being asked to teach and practice the doctrine of work, self-reliance, provident living, giving, and caring for the poor; to increase our generous fast-offering donations to help those in need; to increase our compassionate service, involving the family in charitable acts of service to one another and to our neighbors” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1986, 38; or Ensign, May 1986, 30).
■ Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Let us do the best we can and try to improve each day. When our imperfections appear, we can keep trying to correct them. We can be more forgiving of flaws in ourselves and among those we love. We can be comforted and forbearing. The Lord taught, ‘Ye are not able to abide the presence of God now . . . ; wherefore, continue in patience until ye are perfected’ [D&C 67:13]” (in Conference Report, Sept.–Oct. 1995, 117–18; or Ensign, Nov. 1995, 88).
■ Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin: “As you pray, occasionally take a personal inventory to see how you measure up in your righteousness, in meeting the standards of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We each can know for ourselves, as the Lord knows, where we need to improve. We must hold to the standards. If we have advanced in material, outward things, how are we doing inwardly? Are our lives acceptable to the Lord? Are we willing to acknowledge our sins and then make the effort to forsake them, repent, and make the course correction that will return us to the straight and narrow path?” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1990, 83; or Ensign, Nov. 1990, 66).
■ “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and Man” (Luke 2:52).
Education
■ “When we have knowledge and wisdom, we are able to discern truth from error and make better choices. We are better able to understand God and our fellowmen, and we have a deeper love for them. The Lord has commanded us to gain knowledge (see D&C 88:77–80, 118; 93:53; 130:18–19; 131:6). To become self-reliant, we should—
(Providing in the Lord’s Way: A Leader’s Guide to Welfare, 6).
Health
■ “One of the reasons we came to earth was to obtain bodies, a necessary step in becoming like our Father in Heaven. The Lord has commanded us to keep our bodies and minds healthy (see 1 Corinthians 3:16–17; D&C 88:124; 89). When we do, we are better able to take care of our own needs and serve others. To become self-reliant, we should—
(Providing in the Lord’s Way, 6).
Employment
■ “When we have honorable employment, we are able to provide for ourselves, our families, and others by working as the Lord has commanded. Suitable employment also gives us opportunities to improve our talents and develop the divine attributes within us. We are happier if our employment suits our interests and abilities and meets our needs. The Lord has commanded us to work and provide for the needs of ourselves and our families (see Genesis 3:17–19; 1 Timothy 5:8; D&C 42:42; 56:17). To become self-reliant, we should—
(Providing in the Lord’s Way, 6–7).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley: “The individual, as we teach, ought to do for himself all that he can. When he has exhausted his resources, he ought to turn to his family to assist him. When the family can’t do it, the Church takes over. And when the Church takes over, our great desire is to first take care of his immediate needs and then to help him for so long as he needs to be helped, but in that process to assist him in training, in securing employment, in finding some way of getting on his feet again. That’s the whole objective of this great welfare program” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1996, 70; or Ensign, Nov. 1996, 50).
Resource Management
■ “We should be wise stewards by exercising good judgment in managing and replenishing the resources with which the Lord has blessed us (see Matthew 25:14–30; 2 Nephi 9:51; D&C 59:16–21; 104:11–18, 78–79; 119). To become self-reliant, we should—
(Providing in the Lord’s Way, 7).
■ Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin: “Are we wise stewards of our money? Do we spend less than we earn? Do we avoid unnecessary debt? Do we follow the counsel of the Brethren to ‘store sufficient food, clothing, and where possible fuel for at least one year’ [First Presidency letter, June 24, 1988]? Do we teach our children to value and not waste what they have? Do we teach them to work? Do they understand the importance of the sacred law of tithing? Do we have sufficient education and adequate employment? Do we maintain good health by living the Word of Wisdom? Are we free from the adverse effects of harmful substances?” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1999, 101; or Ensign, May 1999, 78).
Social, Emotional, and Spiritual Strength
■ “We should strive to live righteously, to develop good relationships with family members and others, and to feel good about ourselves (see Matthew 7:1–2, 12; Luke 10:27; D&C 64:9–10). To become self-reliant, we should—
(Providing in the Lord’s Way, 7).
Yussuf recently returned from serving an honorable mission. He is discouraged because he has no job and needs to finish his schooling.
Elder Henry B. Eyring of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke of conversion: “The change that comes is a desire to be someone even better, to reach for more light, and to give greater service to others. Those desires always lead to a hunger for education, to learn what is true, what is useful, and what is beautiful” (Education for Real Life [CES fireside for young adults, May 6, 2001], 1).
We should seek knowledge and wisdom throughout our lives, both in and out of the classroom. Learning helps enrich our lives and helps us better serve God and others.
■ “Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith” (D&C 88:118).
■ “Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand;
“Of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—
“That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you” (D&C 88:78–80).
■ Elder Henry B. Eyring:
“The Lord and His Church have always encouraged education to increase our ability to serve Him and our Heavenly Father’s children. For each of us, whatever our talents, He has service for us to give. And to do it well always involves learning, not once or for a limited time, but continually. . . .
“Part of the tragedy that you must avoid is to discover too late that you missed an opportunity to prepare for a future only God could see for you. The chance to learn another language is for me a painful example. My father was born in Mexico. He grew up speaking Spanish as his first language. I lived in his home for more than twenty years. I, sadly, never asked him to teach me a word of Spanish. Now I am the first contact in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for the Church in Mexico, in Central America, and in Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador. It was no accident that I was born into a home with a Spanish-speaking father.
“But there was another opportunity. My father was a great teacher. He was a chemist. He even kept a blackboard in our basement for his children. He was eager to teach me mathematics. He spent hours trying to help me solve problems for my physics classes. He pled with me to think more often about those things that then seemed so uninteresting and so unimportant. Years later I was called by the Lord to the Presiding Bishopric of the Church and given responsibilities for computing and communications systems. What a blessing I might have had by taking the counsel I give you now” (Education for Real Life, 2–3).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley, fifteenth President of the Church: “You face great challenges that lie ahead. You are moving into a world of fierce competition. You must get all of the education you can. The Lord has instructed us concerning the importance of education. It will qualify you for greater opportunities. It will equip you to do something worthwhile in the great world of opportunity that lies ahead. If you can go to college and that is your wish, then do it. If you have no desire to attend college, then go to a vocational or business school to sharpen your skills and increase your capacity” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1997, 70; or Ensign, May 1997, 49–50).
■ Elder Henry B. Eyring: “It takes neither modern technology nor much money to seize the opportunity to learn in the moments we now waste. You could just have a book and paper and pencil with you. That will be enough. But you need determination to capture the leisure moments you now waste” (Education for Real Life, 4).
■ Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Because of our sacred regard for each human intellect, we consider the obtaining of an education to be a religious responsibility. Yet opportunities and abilities differ. I believe that in the pursuit of education, individual desire is more influential than institution, and personal faith more forceful than faculty” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1992, 5; or Ensign, Nov. 1992, 6).
■ Elder Russell M. Nelson: “Energy is always required to provide lift over opposing forces. These same laws apply in our personal lives. Whenever an undertaking is begun, both the energy and the will to endure are essential. The winner of a five-kilometer race is declared at the end of five kilometers, not at one or two. If you board a bus to Boston, you don’t get off at Burlington. If you want to gain an education, you don’t drop out along the way-just as you don’t pay to dine at an elegant restaurant only to walk away after sampling the salad” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1997, 97; or Ensign, May 1997, 71).
■ “To be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God” (2 Nephi 9:29 [Scripture Mastery, 2 Nephi 9:28–29]).
■ President James E. Faust of the First Presidency: “Remember, the marvels of modern science and technology will not exalt us. Indeed, the great challenge we face as we prepare for the future is to be more spiritually enlightened. All of this new, expanding intellectual property must certainly be mastered through great effort and learning. But technical savvy is not fully useful unless there is a spiritual purpose and meaning to it. I am certain the Lord expects us to apply it to the advancement of His purposes and the blessing of mankind, but we must adopt those lofty ideals as personal goals and desires before we can direct technology to those purposes” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1999, 22; or Ensign, May 1999, 19).
■ Elder Henry B. Eyring:
“It is clear that putting spiritual learning first does not relieve us from learning secular things. On the contrary, it gives our secular learning purpose and motivates us to work harder at it. If we will keep spiritual learning in its proper place, we will have to make some hard choices of how we use our time. We generally know when papers will be due, when tests must be taken, when projects must be completed. And we know when the Sabbath will come. We know when the institute class will be held. We know when the prayers at the beginning of a day and those at the end should come. We know about how long it takes in reading the scriptures before we begin to feel the Holy Spirit. We know about how many hours it takes to prepare and to perform our service in the Church.
“When we see life as it really is, we plan for a time and a place for all of those things. There will come crises when there does not seem to be enough time. There will be many instances when one thing crowds out another. But there should never be a conscious choice to let the spiritual become secondary as a pattern in our lives. Never. That will lead to tragedy. The tragedy may not be obvious at first, nor may it ever be clear in mortal life. But remember, you are interested in education not for life, but for eternal life. When you see that reality clearly with spiritual sight, you will put spiritual learning first and yet not slight the secular learning. In fact, you will work harder at your secular learning than you would without that spiritual vision” (Education for Real Life, 3).
■ Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “If we provide a spiritual foundation for our secular learning, not only will we better understand the laws of nature, we can gain a depth of understanding about art, languages, technology, medicine, law, and human behavior never before imagined possible” (Enter to Learn-Go Forth to Serve [CES fireside for young adults, Mar. 5, 1995], 4; see “Learning to Serve,” Ensign, Aug. 1996, 13).
■ “The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth” (D&C 93:36).
■ “If ye are prepared ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley: “Get all the education you can, I wish to say to the young people. Cultivate skills of mind and hands. Education is the key to opportunity. The Lord has placed upon you, as members of this Church, the obligation to study and to learn of things spiritual, yes, but of things temporal also. Acquire all of the education that you can, even if it means great sacrifice while you are young. You will bless the lives of your children. You will bless the Church because you will reflect honor to this work” (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [1997], 172).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley:
“You are moving into the most competitive age the world has ever known. All around you is competition. You need all the education you can get. Sacrifice a car; sacrifice anything that is needed to be sacrificed to qualify yourselves to do the work of the world. That world will in large measure pay you what it thinks you are worth, and your worth will increase as you gain education and proficiency in your chosen field.
“You belong to a church that teaches the importance of education. You have a mandate from the Lord to educate your minds and your hearts and your hands. The Lord has said, ‘Teach ye diligently . . . of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms-that ye may be prepared in all things’ (D&C 88:78–80).
“Mind you, these are not my words. These are the words of the Lord who loves you. He wants you to train your minds and hands to become an influence for good as you go forward with your lives. And as you do so and as you perform honorably and with excellence, you will bring honor to the Church, for you will be regarded as a man or woman of integrity and ability and conscientious workmanship. . . .
“Be smart. The Lord wants you to educate your minds and hands, whatever your chosen field. Whether it be repairing refrigerators, or the work of a skilled surgeon, you must train yourselves. Seek for the best schooling available. Become a workman of integrity in the world that lies ahead of you. I repeat, you will bring honor to the Church and you will be generously blessed because of that training.
“There can be no doubt, none whatever, that education pays. Do not short-circuit your lives. If you do so, you will pay for it over and over and over again” (“A Prophet’s Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” Ensign, Jan. 2001, 4–5, 7; or New Era, Jan. 2001, 8, 10–11).
■ “The Holy Ghost . . . will show unto you all things what ye should do” (2 Nephi 32:5).
■ President Howard W. Hunter, fourteenth President of the Church: “I would like to say something to you that I consider to be very important. Throughout your life, you will be faced with many choices. How well you select among the alternatives will determine your success and happiness in life. Some of the decisions you will make will be absolutely critical and can affect the entire course of your life. Please measure those alternatives against the teachings of Jesus Christ. To be able to do that you must know and understand his teachings. As you exercise faith and live worthy of inspiration, you will be directed in the important choices you make” (Prepare Yourself [pamphlet, 1996], 1–2).
■ Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “I stand in awe that our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son are willing, even anxious for us to learn from them. . . . Gaining spiritual knowledge is not a mechanical process. It is a sacred privilege based upon spiritual law. I testify that you can receive inspired help. Humbly ask your Eternal Father. Seek divine light. Exercise faith in the Savior. Strive to hearken to His counsel and obey His commandments. He will bless and lead you as you move through this sometimes treacherous world” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1993, 120; or Ensign, Nov. 1993, 88).
■ “Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.
“And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come” (D&C 130:18–19 [Scripture Mastery]).
■ Elder Henry B. Eyring:
“No service that matters can be given over a lifetime by those who stop learning. A great teacher is always studying. A nurse never stops facing the challenge of dealing with something new, be it equipment or procedure. And the workplace in every industry is changing so rapidly that what we know today will not be enough for tomorrow.
“Our education must never stop. If it ends at the door of the classroom on graduation day, we will fail. And since what we will need to know is hard to discern, we need the help of heaven to know which of the myriad of things we could study we would most wisely learn. It also means that we cannot waste time entertaining ourselves when we have the chance to read or to listen to whatever will help us learn what is true and useful. Insatiable curiosity will be our hallmark” (Education for Real Life, 4).
■ Elder L. Tom Perry: “The rapidly changing world breeds obsolescence and requires us to be continually engaged in preparing ourselves for the future. We can become antiquated in our professions if we do not stay up-to-date. Imagine how many patients a dentist would have if he continued to use the same tools and techniques he used a decade ago. What about a businessman who tried to compete without the use of computers? Or a builder who had not stayed abreast of the latest materials and methods available? Education has, of necessity, become a lifelong pursuit. We must, in our scheduling of time, allot sufficient time to educate ourselves for now and for the future” (in Conference Report, Sept.–Oct. 1995, 46; or Ensign, Nov. 1995, 36).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley:
“There is a great potential within each of us to go on learning. Regardless of our age, unless there be serious illness, we can read, study, drink in the writings of wonderful men and women. . . .
“We of this Church have been given a marvelous promise by the Lord Himself. Said He: ‘That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day’ (D&C 50:24).
“What a remarkable statement that is. It is one of my favorite verses of scripture. It speaks of growth, of development, of the march that leads toward Godhood. It goes hand in hand with these great declarations: ‘The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth’ (D&C 93:36); ‘If a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come’ (D&C 130:19); and, ‘whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection’ (D&C 130:18).
“What a profound challenge is found in these marvelous statements. We must go on growing. We must continuously learn. It is a divinely given mandate that we go on adding to our knowledge” (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley, 303; see “A Conversation with Single Adults,” Ensign, Mar. 1997, 61–62).
■ President Gordon B. Hinckley:
“The learning process is endless. We must read, we must observe, we must assimilate, and we must ponder that to which we expose our minds. I believe in the evolution of the mind, the heart, and the soul of humanity. I believe in improvement. I believe in growth. There is nothing quite as invigorating as being able to evaluate and then solve a difficult problem, to grapple with something that seems almost unsolvable and then find a resolution.
“For such reasons, and because the pace and complexity of life demand it, we cannot afford to stop learning and growing and progressing. We must not rest in our personal development-development that is emotional and spiritual as well as mental. There is so much to learn and so little time in which to learn it” (Standing for Something [2000], 62).
Elder Russell M. Nelson taught:
“Those who impulsively ‘drop out’ and cut short their education . . . frustrate the realization of their own potential.
“I remember my moment of resolution many years ago when, as an untrained teenager, I secured temporary employment at Christmastime. The work was monotonous. Each hour and each day passed slowly. I resolved then and there that I must obtain an education that would qualify me better for life. I determined to stay in school and work for an education as though my very life depended upon it.
“Later as stake president I was questioned by many young people about their own educational pursuits. Some asked me how long it took to become a doctor of medicine. ‘The general pattern would be four years at a university, followed by four years in medical school,’ I replied. ‘And if you choose to become a specialist, that could take another five years or more, depending upon your desire.’
“That occasionally evoked a reaction: ‘That adds up to thirteen years-and maybe more? That’s too long for me!’
“‘It all depends,’ I would respond. ‘Preparation for your career is not too long if you know what you want to do with your life. How old will you be thirteen years from now if you don’t pursue your education? Just as old, whether or not you become what you want to be!’
“So my counsel then-and now-is to continue your education wherever you are, whatever your interest and opportunity, however you determine you can best serve your family and society” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1992, 5; or Ensign, Nov. 1992, 6).
Temzie is a recently returned missionary. He uses many of the skills he learned in the mission field in his new job. He earns enough to support himself, but the job will not be enough to support a family once he marries. Since he has no prospects for marriage right now, he has decided not to continue his education at this time. Without having to study, he has more leisure time to enjoy.