Missionary Work

"Wherever our members and missionaries may go, our message is one of faith and hope in the Savior Jesus Christ."

Boyd K. Packer, “The Atonement”, November 2012

"God is preparing people to receive your testimony of restored truth. He requires your faith and then your action to share fearlessly what has become so precious to you and those you love."

Henry B. Eyring, “Sharing the Gospel Heart to Heart”, September 2012

"As you go forth and share our core beliefs and the fruits of our doctrines, misperceptions will dissolve, prejudices will diminish, and people will come to see Latter-day Saints as devout disciples of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

Quentin L. Cook, 2012

"If you will respond to the invitation to share your beliefs and feelings about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, a spirit of love and a spirit of courage will be your constant companion, for perfect love casteth out fear."

L. Tom Perry, “Perfect Love Casteth Out Fear”, November 2011

"Young people need to commit themselves early in life to the idea of a mission. That way, when they get older and begin to face some of the world's temptations, those temptations will be less likely to penetrate their hearts or minds. They will resist the temptations because they are focused on becoming a servant of the Lord."

M. Russell Ballard, “How to Prepare to Become a Good Missionary”, March 2007

"You are called to represent the Savior. Your voice to testify becomes the same as His voice, your hands to lift the same as His hands. His work is to bless His Father's spirit children with the opportunity to choose eternal life. So, your calling is to bless lives.  Your call has eternal consequences for others and for you. In the world to come, thousands may call your name blessed, even more than the people you serve here. They will be the ancestors and the descendants of those who chose eternal life because of something you said or did, or even what you were. . .You see, there are no small callings to represent the Lord."

Henry B. Eyring, “Rise to Your Call”, November 2002

“I have attended hundreds of missionary meetings over the years. I love to hear missionaries speak of their love for the Lord, but I also love to hear them speak with great appreciation and love concerning their parents. Boys who had been careless and indifferent stand on their feet and with tears in their eyes thank the Lord for their fathers and their mothers. In these days, what a salutary and wonderful thing it is to hear a strong young man stand up and speak with great feeling concerning his father and his mother, saying things he would never have said before in all of his life. Every boy and girl ought to come home with an increased love for parents.”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “Gifts to Bring Home from the Mission Field”, March 2007

"Recounting this history brings to my mind the experience of John E. Page as the Prophet Joseph Smith called him to serve a mission in Canada. 'But I can't go on a mission to Canada, Brother Joseph,' protested John E. Page. 'I don't even have a coat to wear.'  'Here,' said Joseph Smith, removing his own coat, 'take this, and the Lord will bless you.'  John E. Page left Kirtland, Ohio, May 31, 1836, on his first mission as an elder of the Church. He labored in Canada for two years. During that time, he traveled over five thousand miles, mostly on foot, and baptized some six hundred people."

Thomas S. Monson, “Days Never to be Forgotten”, November 1990

"This was a big issue in our family. That night my brother and I talked about the choice. . . .We concluded: If Jesus Christ was a great man but not divine, if Joseph Smith was a wonderful teacher but not a prophet, or if the Book of Mormon had wonderful counsel but was not the word of God, then Dad was right—it would be better to go to medical school. But if Jesus Christ is divine, if Joseph Smith is a prophet, and if the Book of Mormon is the word of God, then it would be more important to accept the call and proclaim the gospel.  That night, as I prayed, the Spirit bore witness to my soul of the Savior and the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and that Joseph Smith was a prophet. My brother received the same witness and made the choice to serve a mission. Incidentally, when my brother returned from his mission, he went to medical school. When I reached my 20th birthday, my father was happy to see me serve a mission."

Quentin L. Cook, “Strengthen Faith As You Seek Knowledge”, September 2008

"His inquiries led him to the Smith home, where he spoke with those present about the wonderful news of the restored gospel. After spending two days there and receiving a testimony of the truth, Solomon resumed his journey to Canada, taking with him 64 newly printed, unbound pages of the Book of Mormon. Everywhere he went, he taught the people, 'both high and low, rich and poor, . . . to prepare for the great work of God that was now about to come forth'."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “A Great Work of God”, April 2010

               In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, it is expected that when young men reach the age of 18 or 19, they are to serve a full-time, two year mission for the church.  Young women have this opportunity as well, when they reach the age of 19, but they are not expected to do so, as the men are.  During these two years, those who serve their missions are not working, going to school, continuing romantic relationships, etc.  Those two years are devoted entirely to serving the Lord and His church.

               Missionaries go to many various places across the globe, speaking numerous different languages, and preach the gospel.  However, the phrase “Every member a missionary” is a common one in the church.  A person does not need to leave home for two years to do missionary work.  This can be done by sharing your testimony, living your life in accordance to the gospel, and not being hesitant to let your beliefs be known.  It is doing a service to God, to share His word with more of His children.

Plan of Salvation

Plan of Salvation

"It is necessary to prepare, to plan, so that we don't fritter away our lives. Without a goal, there can be no real success. The best definition of success I have ever found goes something like this: Success is the progressive realization of a worthy ideal. Someone has said the trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never crossing the goal line."

Thomas S. Monson, “Three Gates Only You Can Open”, August 2008

"Not all will follow the map [Heavenly Father has given us]. They may look at it. They may think it is reasonable, perhaps even true. But they do not follow the divine directions. Many believe that any road will take them to a 'happily ever after.' Some may even become angry when others who know the way try to help and tell them. They suppose that such advice is outdated, irrelevant, out of touch with modern life.  Sisters, they suppose wrong."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Your Happily Ever After”, May 2010

"When we received the special blessing of knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ and took upon ourselves the name of Christ by entering the waters of baptism, we also accepted the obligation to share the gospel with others."

L. Tom Perry, “The Past Way of Facing the Future”, November 2009

“I bear you my testimony that God the Father lives. He set a course for each of us that can polish and perfect us to be with Him. I testify that the Savior lives. His Atonement makes possible our being purified as we keep His commandments and our sacred covenants. And I know from my own experience that He can and will give us strength to rise through every trial. . . . This is the Lord’s true Church in which we are, with Him, lifting each other and being blessed to succor the fellow sufferers He places in our way.”

Henry B. Eyring, “Adversity”, May 2009

“The Savior said: ‘Let not your heart be troubled. . . . In my Father’s house are many mansions. . . . I go to prepare a place for you.’ A succinct summary is provided in the book of Moses: ‘For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.’ ”

Quentin L. Cook, “Our Father’s Plan—Big Enough for All His Children”, May 2009

“It is . . . important that we be loving and kind to members of our own faith, regardless of their level of commitment or activity. The Savior has made it clear that we are not to judge each other (see Luke 6:37). This is especially true of members of our own families. Our obligation is to love and teach and never give up. The Lord has made salvation ‘free for all men’ but has ‘commanded his people that they should persuade all men to repentance’ (2 Nephi 26:27).”

Quentin L. Cook, “Our Father’s Plan—Big Enough for All His Children”, May 2009

“I bear you my testimony that God the Father lives. He set a course for each of us that can polish and perfect us to be with Him. I testify that the Savior lives. His Atonement makes possible our being purified as we keep His commandments and our sacred covenants. And I know from my own experience that He can and will give us strength to rise through every trial.”

Henry B. Eyring, “Adversity”, May 2009

“When any of Heavenly Father’s children misuse their physical tabernacles by violating the law of chastity, by using drugs and addictive substances, by disfiguring or defacing themselves, or by worshipping the false idol of body image, whether their own or that of others, Satan is delighted. To those of us who know and understand the plan of salvation, any defiling of the body is rebellion (see Mosiah 2:36–37; D&C 64:34–35) and a denial of our true identity as sons and daughters of God.”

David A. Bednar, “Things As They Really Are”, May 2009

“It is equally important that we be loving and kind to members of our own faith, regardless of their level of commitment or activity. The Savior has made it clear that we are not to judge each other. This is especially true of members of our own families. Our obligation is to love and teach and never give up. The Lord has made salvation ‘free for all men’ but has ‘commanded his people that they should persuade all men to repentance.’ ”

Quentin L. Cook, “Our Father’s Plan—Big Enough for All His Children”, May 2009

"Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we need not fear, for we will live forever, never to taste of death again. Because of His infinite Atonement, we can be cleansed of sin and stand pure and holy before the judgment bar. The Savior is the Author of our Salvation."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Infinite Power of Hope”, November 2008
 

               The Plan of Salvation is also referred to as the Plan of Happiness.  Before this life, in the “premortal existence”, we lived with Heavenly Father and other spirits.  He presented His plan to us, of living on earth, gaining bodies, and having that experience.  This was all so we could eventually have the opportunity to become as God is.  Our entire existence is geared towards an eternal progression.  We need to keep moving forward, and progress to become all that Heavenly Father hopes for us to be.  The road is not an easy one, but it will help us to grow, and to become more like Him.  It is essential for us to progress, and when the plan was presented to us, we were excited for it, and all that it promised and held in store.

Children of our Heavenly Father

"Sisters, we love you. We pray for you. Be strong and of good courage. You are truly royal spirit daughters of Almighty God. You are princesses, destined to become queens. Your own wondrous story has already begun. Your 'once upon a time' is now."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Your Happily Ever After, May 2010

“Christ knows how to minister to others perfectly. When the Savior stretches out His hands, those He touches are uplifted and become greater, stronger, and better people as a result. If we are His hands, should we not do the same?”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “You Are My Hands”, May 2010

“We sometimes confuse sin with sinner, and we condemn too quickly and with too little compassion. We know from modern revelation that ‘the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.’ We cannot gauge the worth of another soul any more than we can measure the span of the universe.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “You Are My Hands”, May 2010

“The Lord knows who we really are, what we really think, what we really do, and who we really are becoming.”

David A. Bednar, “Things As They Really Are”, May 2009

"Continuing revelation is a fundamental feature of [the faith of our Father]. Joseph Smith's first prayer is a powerful testimony of this. Revelation is a constant compass that keeps us always true to the will and the faith of our Heavenly Father.  Our Heavenly Father loves His children. He hears the prayers of the humble and sincere of every nation, tongue, and people. He grants light to those who seek and honor Him and are willing to obey His commandments. We joyously proclaim that the faith of our Father is on the earth today."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Faith of Our Father”, May 2008

"There is no one perfect way to be a good mother. Each situation is unique. Each mother has different challenges, different skills and abilities, and certainly different children. The choice is different and unique for each mother and each family. Many are able to be 'full-time moms,' at least during the most formative years of their children's lives, and many others would like to be. Some may have to work part- or full-time; some may work at home; some may divide their lives into periods of home and family and work. What matters is that a mother loves her children deeply and, in keeping with the devotion she has for God and her husband, prioritizes them above all else."

M. Russell Ballard, “Daughters of God”, May 2008

"When we teach those we love that we are spirit children temporarily away from a loving Heavenly Father, we open the door of prayer to them.  We lived in His presence before we came here to be tested. We knew His face, and He knew ours. Just as my earthly father watched me go away from him, our Father in Heaven watched us go into mortality."

Henry B. Eyring, “Write Upon My Heart”, November 2000

"We who bear the holy priesthood have a sacred duty to honor our sisters. We are old enough and wise enough to know that teasing is wrong. We respect sisters--not only in our immediate families but all the wonderful sisters in our lives. As daughters of God, their potential is divine. Without them, eternal life would be impossible. Our high regard for them should spring from our love of God and from an awareness of their lofty purpose in His great eternal plan."

Russell M. Nelson, “Our Sacred Duty to Honor Women”, May 1999

"At times some may think that no one cares--but someone always cares! Your Heavenly Father will not leave you to struggle alone, but stands ever ready to help."

Thomas S. Monson, “Three Gates to Open”, January 2001

"God has known you individually, brethren, for a long, long time (see D&C 93:23). He has loved you for a long, long time. He not only knows the names of all the stars (see Psalm 147:4; Isaiah 40:26); He knows your names and all your heartaches and your joys! By the way, you have never seen an immortal star; they finally expire. But seated by you tonight are immortal individuals--imperfect but who are, nevertheless, 'trying to be like Jesus'!"

Neal A. Maxwell, “Remember How Merciful the Lord Hath Been”, May 2004
 

               We are sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father.  He loves us, and we love Him.  He knows us, and we know Him.  We lived with our Heavenly Father before we came to earth.  We had time with Him, to get to know Him, to make strong, everlasting relationships with Him.  We turn to Him in prayer, not only because He is powerful and all-knowing, but because He loves us, as a great father loves His child.  He knows us individually.  He knows our strengths, weaknesses, fears, joys, insecurities, hopes, and desires.  He wants to see live to our greatest potential and succeed.  He wants to see us be happy.  He wants to see us return to Him.  Not because it would be an accomplishment on His part, but because He misses us, and wants us to be back home with Him.

Book of Mormon

“Conversion depends upon our feeling the Spirit. The words of the Book of Mormon invite the Holy Ghost. There is great converting power in the word of God. Alma taught us that the word of God was ‘more powerful . . . than the sword, or anything else’ in changing people’s hearts (Alma 31:5).”

Henry B. Eyring, “Why the Book of Mormon?”, May 2008

"It was on 5 April 1829 that Oliver Cowdery arrived at the Smith home. Now you can see the hand of the Lord in preparing this work to go forward. Having been hired to teach school in the Manchester township in New York, Oliver was invited to board at the home of Joseph Smith Sr. Here he heard of the miraculous story of their son. He made his way to Harmony to meet the Prophet Joseph Smith, who recognized him as the assistant the Lord had promised for the translation. On Tuesday, 7 April, they commenced the work of translation in earnest. To me the most exciting miracle in the bringing forth of the Book of Mormon happened during the next 85 days. The complete book was translated from a then-unknown language into English. This is no common, simple book. Someone has figured out that it covers 1,000 years of colonization in which 54 chapters deal with war, 21 are historical, 55 are on visions and prophecies, 71 on doctrines and exhortations, 17 on missionary work, and 21 on the mission of the Savior, for a total of 239 chapters."

L. Tom Perry, “By the Hands of His Prophets”, August 1998

 

"I testify that one cannot come to full faith in this latter-day work—and thereby find the fullest measure of peace and comfort in these, our times—until he or she embraces the divinity of the Book of Mormon and the Lord Jesus Christ, of whom it testifies."

Jeffrey R. Holland, “Safety for the Soul”, November 2009

"Love. Healing. Help. Hope. The power of Christ to counter all troubles in all times—including the end of times. That is the safe harbor God wants for us in personal or public days of despair. That is the message with which the Book of Mormon begins, and that is the message with which it ends, calling all to 'come unto Christ, and be perfected in him' (Moroni 10:32)."

Jeffrey R. Holland, “Safety for the Soul”, November 2009

"Most books contained in libraries of the world were authored for contemporary readers. And they were generally written for profit, with royalties accruing from successful sales.  Not so with the Book of Mormon. It was written anciently for our day. It reveals the endless Lordship of Jesus Christ in accounts of two ancient American dispensations, preserved for the benefit of us who live in this dispensation of the fulness of times. Certainly no royalties came to its authors. In fact, they paid dearly for their privilege of participation. What motivated them? Their devotion to God! The book's four major writers—Nephi, Jacob, Mormon, and Moroni—were all eyewitnesses of the Lord, as was its martyred translator, the Prophet Joseph Smith."

Russell M. Nelson, “A Testimony of the Book of Mormon”, November 1999

"Regular reading of and talking about the Book of Mormon invite the power to resist temptation and to produce feelings of love within our families. And discussions about the doctrines and principles in the Book of Mormon provide opportunities for parents to observe their children, to listen to them, to learn from them, and to teach them."

David A. Bednar, “Watching With All Perseverance”, May 2010

"When the Book of Mormon was published, Martin Harris was nearly 47 years of age, more than 20 years older than Joseph Smith and the other two witnesses. He was a prosperous and respected citizen of Palmyra, New York. He owned a farm of over 240 acres, large for the time and place. He was an honored veteran of two battles in the War of 1812. His fellow citizens entrusted him with many elective offices and responsibilities in the community. He was universally respected for his industry and integrity. Assessments by contemporaries described him as 'an industrious, hard-working farmer, shrewd in his business calculations, frugal in his habits,' and 'strictly upright in his business dealings' (quoted in Richard Lloyd Anderson, Investigating the Book of Mormon Witnesses [1981], 96–97, 98).  This prosperous and upright older man befriended the young and penniless Joseph Smith, giving him the $50 that permitted him to pay his debts in Palmyra and locate in northeastern Pennsylvania about 150 miles away. There, in April 1828, Joseph Smith began his first persistent translation of the Book of Mormon."

Dallin H. Oaks, “The Witness: Martin Harris”, May 1999

"His inquiries led him to the Smith home, where he spoke with those present about the wonderful news of the restored gospel. After spending two days there and receiving a testimony of the truth, Solomon resumed his journey to Canada, taking with him 64 newly printed, unbound pages of the Book of Mormon. Everywhere he went, he taught the people, 'both high and low, rich and poor, . . . to prepare for the great work of God that was now about to come forth' ("A Short Sketch of the Life of Solomon Chamberlain," typescript, Church History Library)."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “A Great Work of God”, April 2010

"We marvel that the Prophet Joseph Smith worked completely without referring to any other sources. None of the 12 people who either participated or merely observed mentioned Joseph's having any reference materials present. . . . Since the Prophet dictated openly, these individuals would have been aware of any suspicious behavior or procedures. Emma was emphatic on this very point: 'He had neither manuscript nor book to read from, [and] if he had anything of the kind he could not have concealed it from me'.  Thus the Book of Mormon came through, but not from, Joseph Smith!"

Neal A. Maxwell, “By the Gift and Power of God”, January 1997

"A . . . marvel of the Book of Mormon translation process is that from what we know, rarely would Joseph go back, review, or revise what had already been done. There was a steady flow in the translation.  Emma Smith said of the inspired process: 'After meals, or after interruptions, [Joseph] would at once begin where he had left off, without either seeing the manuscript or having any portion of it read to him' ("Last Testimony of Sister Emma," Saints' Herald, 1 Oct. 1879, 290). One who has dictated and been interrupted must usually resume by inquiring, 'Now, where were we?' Not so with the Prophet!”

Neal A. Maxwell, “By the Gift and Power of God”, January 1997

               Through the translation of Joseph Smith, and the restoration of the church on the earth, we have been blessed with the Book of Mormon.  It is an extension of the word of God.  It does not replace the Bible, but is a continuation of the teachings and doctrine which it provides us with.  We are able to learn more of the history, of God’s will, and of Christ’s teachings.  The Book of Mormon was not written by Joseph Smith, but was merely translated by him, by blessings given from God to enable him to do so.

Repentance

"If one of you has seriously sinned, repent—now. It is not good to violate the commandments of the Lord. It is worse to do nothing about it. Sin is like cancer in the body. It will never heal itself. It will become progressively worse unless cured through the medicine of repentance."

Richard G. Scott, “Don’t Face the World Alone”, February 2007

"If any has stumbled in his journey, there is a way back. The process is called repentance. Our Savior died to provide you and me that blessed gift. Though the path is difficult, the promise is real: 'Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow' (Isaiah 1:18)."

Thomas S. Monson, “Preparation Brings Blessings”, May 2010

"Rationalization for bad choices will not be effective, but repentance will. Those who repent will be particularly blessed by the Atonement."

Quentin L. Cook, “Strengthen Faith As You Seek Knowledge”, September 2008

"My dear young friends, when the captain of a long-range jet passes the point of safe return, and the headwinds are too strong or the cruising altitudes too low, he might be forced to divert to an airport other than his planned destination. This is not so in our journey through life back to our heavenly home. Wherever you find yourselves on this journey through life, whatever trials you may face, there is always a point of safe return; there is always hope. You are the captain of your life, and God has prepared a plan to bring you safely back to Him, to your divine destination."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Is There A Point of No Return?”, June 2010

"Recently . . . I encountered a large temporary sign declaring Rough Road Ahead, and indeed it was. Had I not been warned, that experience would have been disastrous. Life is like that. It's full of rough spots. Some are tests to make us stronger. Others result from our own disobedience. . . . Each one of us encounters unique challenges meant for growth."

Richard G. Scott, “Finding Forgiveness”, March 2010

“The invitation to repent is rarely a voice of chastisement but rather a loving appeal to turn around and to ‘re-turn’ toward God. It is the beckoning of a loving Father and His Only Begotten Son to be more than we are, to reach up to a higher way of life, to change, and to feel the happiness of keeping the commandments.”

Neil L. Andersen, “Repent… That I May Heal You”, November 2009

"Repentance is a blessing to all of us. We each need to feel the Savior's arms of mercy through the forgiveness of our sins."

Neil L. Andersen, “Repent… That I May Heal You”, November 2009

“The truth is that we all need repentance. If we are capable of reason and past the age of eight, we all need the cleansing that comes through applying the full effects of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.”

Henry B. Eyring, “Do Not Delay”, November 1999

“Repentance is powerful spiritual medicine. There are few spiritual ills it will not cure. Each sin left behind through faith in Christ opens spiritual doors.”

Neil L. Andersen, “Clean Again!”, April 1997

“Each of us has made mistakes, large or small, which if unresolved will keep us from the presence of God. For this reason, the atonement of Jesus Christ is the single most significant event that ever has or ever will occur. This selfless act of infinite consequence, performed by a single glorified personage, has eternal impact in the life of every son and daughter of our Father in Heaven—without exception.”

Richard G. Scott, “Finding Forgiveness”, May 1995

 

               Through His atonement, Christ provided a way for us to be forgiven.  His sacrifice took care of the “justice” part of the plan, thus providing us with mercy and forgiveness.  If we turn to God, tell Him what we have done, ask for forgiveness, and turn our lives over to Him, He will not only forgive us, but forget our sins.  We will be given a clean slate and a fresh start.  His forgiveness is true and full and complete.  God does not hold any grudges against us, or secretly continue to judge us because of what we have done.    

Faith

"There are those among you who, although young, have already suffered a full measure of grief and sorrow. My heart is filled with compassion and love for you. How dear you are to the Church. How beloved you are of your Heavenly Father. Though it may seem that you are alone, angels attend you. Though you may feel that no one can understand the depth of your despair, our Savior, Jesus Christ, understands. He suffered more than we can possibly imagine, and He did it for us; He did it for you. You are not alone."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Your Happily Ever After”, May 2010

“He is your beloved Heavenly Father, who seeks your good, your happiness. He desires with all the love of a perfect and pure Father that you reach your supernal destination. . . . All you have to do is trust your Heavenly Father. Trust Him enough to follow His plan.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Your Happily Ever After”, May 2010

"I bear witness of the power of the priesthood given to the Church to protect us and guide us. And because we have that, we have no fear of the future. Fear is the opposite of faith. We move forward, certain that the Lord will watch over us, particularly in the family."

Boyd K. Packer, “The Power of the Priesthood”, May 2010

"Our understanding of and faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ will provide strength and capacity needed for a successful life."

Richard G. Scott, “He Lives! All Glory to His Name!”, May 2010

"Faith as the assurance of things hoped for looks to the future. This assurance is founded upon a correct understanding about, and trust in, God and enables us to 'press forward' (2 Nephi 31:20) into uncertain and often challenging situations in the service of the Savior."

David A. Bednar, “Seek Learning by Faith”, September 2007

"A stronger personal faith in Jesus Christ will prepare [your children] for the challenges they will most surely face."

Neil L. Andersen, “Tell Me the Stories of Jesus”, May 2010

"The vast majority of the Utah pioneers got their first glimpse of the sagebrush, sego lily, salt-flat desert landscape of this Great Salt Lake Valley on foot. Some even arrived barefoot after having suffered extreme hardships in traversing over 1,300 miles of prairie, desert, and mountain wilderness. Before the railroad reached the Utah Territory in 1869, approximately 70,000 pioneers, 9,600 wagons, and 650 handcarts made the trek from Winter Quarters in present-day Iowa and Nebraska to the Salt Lake Valley. Each pioneer who walked from the Mississippi River to the Great Salt Lake took millions of steps to travel that distance. Under favorable circumstances, the trek took a little more than three months. Traveling 15 miles in a day was considered a good day. In total, billions of footsteps of faith were taken by our pioneers.”

M. Russell Ballard, “Faith in Every Footstep”, November 1996

"Brothers and sisters, we need to learn that early members of the Church succeeded in the face of all opposition because they had the unwavering faith to open their mouths and declare the truth and because they took with them the mighty sword of the Lord's Spirit (see D&C 27:16–18). They remembered their baptismal covenant 'to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places . . . even until death' (Mosiah 18:9)."

M. Russell Ballard, “Anchored by Faith and Commitment”, July 1995

"As it was then, so it is today. This precious and marvelous gift of faith, this gift from God our Eternal Father, is still the strength of this work and the quiet vibrancy of its message. Faith underlies it all. Faith is the substance of it all. Whether it be going into the mission field, living the Word of Wisdom, paying one's tithing, it is all the same. It is the faith within us that is evidenced in all we do."

Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Miracle of Faith”, May 2001

"We have much reason to hope. Joy can be ours if we are willing to sacrifice all for the Lord. Then we can look forward to the infinitely priceless possibility of overcoming all the challenges of this life. Then we will be with the Savior forever and, as President Brigham Young also said, "anticipate enjoying the glory, excellency and exaltation which God has prepared for the faithful'."

James E. Faust, “Where Do I Make My Stand?”, November 2004

               None of these other topics would matter so much if it weren’t for faith.  If we didn’t believe that there was any greater thing besides ourselves, or any higher authority to answer to, we would not try to stick to rules and higher laws that are set.  People would simply live how they wanted to live, without much regard to things besides their own happiness.

               Faith is what carries us through our darker times.  Faith that we will be helped, healed, shown the way, made stronger.  Faith is the root of hope.  It is the light that shines in the dark, and leads the way.  It is the promise that things will be alright, even when all seems lost.  In the most trying times, even when faith seems lost, it resides in the small corners of our hearts, waiting for us to call on it.

Pornography

“You cannot afford in any degree to become involved with pornography, whatever its form. You simply cannot afford to become involved in immoral practices--or to let down the bars of sexual restraint. The emotions that stir within you which make boys attractive to girls and girls attractive to boys are part of a divine plan, but they must be restrained, subdued, and kept under control, or they will destroy you and make you unworthy of many of the great blessings which the Lord has in store for you.”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Chosen Generation”, May 1992

"Suppose a storm is raging and the winds howl and the snow swirls about you. You find yourself unable to stop it. But you can dress properly and seek shelter, and the storm will have no effect upon you. Likewise, even though the Internet is saturated with sleazy material, you do not have to watch it. You can retreat to the shelter of the gospel and its teaching of cleanliness and virtue and purity of life... Now . . . the time has come for any one of us who is so involved [in pornography] to pull himself [or herself] out of the mire, to stand above this evil thing, to 'look to God and live' (Alma 37:47).”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Tragic Evil Among Us”, November 2004

"At times we may rationalize that the Lord will understand our disobedience because our special circumstances make adherence to His laws difficult, embarrassing, or even painful. However, faithful obedience, regardless of the apparent size of the task, will bring the Lord's guidance, assistance, and peace."

Bruce A. Carlson, “When the Lord Commands”, May 2010

"One of the most damning influences on earth, one that has caused uncountable grief, suffering, heartache, and destroyed marriages, is the onslaught of pornography in all of its vicious, corroding, destructive forms. Whether it be through the printed page, movies, television, obscene lyrics, the telephone, or on a flickering personal computer screen, pornography is overpoweringly addictive and severely damaging."

Richard G. Scott, “To Acquire Spiritual Guidance”, November 2009

“Why is lust such a deadly sin? Well, in addition to the completely Spirit-destroying impact it has upon our souls, I think it is a sin because it defiles the highest and holiest relationship God gives us in mortality—the love that a man and a woman have for each other and the desire that couple has to bring children into a family intended to be forever.”

Jeffrey R. Holland, “Place No More for the Enemy of My Soul”, May 2010

“How like the elm is man. From a minute seed and in accordance with a divine plan, we grow, are nurtured, and mature. The bright sunlight of heaven, the rich blessings of earth are ours. In our private forest of family and friends, life is richly rewarding and abundantly beautiful. Then suddenly, there appears before us in this generation a sinister and diabolical enemy—pornography. Like the bark beetle, it too is the carrier of a deadly disease. I shall name it ‘pernicious permissiveness.’  At first we scarcely realize we have been infected. We laugh and make lighthearted comment concerning the off-color story or the clever cartoon. With evangelical zeal we protect the so-called rights of those who would contaminate with smut and destroy all that is precious and sacred. The beetle of pornography is doing his deadly task—undercutting our will, destroying our immunity, and stifling that upward reach within each of us.”

Thomas S. Monson, “Pornography, the Deadly Carrier”, July 2001

“The constant, consuming march of the pornography beetle blights neighborhoods just as it contaminates human lives. It has just about destroyed some areas. It moves relentlessly closer to your city, your neighborhood, and your family. Pornography is now more available than ever. At the click of a button, evil can be viewed in our homes on televisions and computer screens, in our hotels and movie theaters, or even in our places of employment, where access to the Internet is often provided.”

Thomas S. Monson, “Pornography, the Deadly Carrier”, July 2001

“As we encounter that evil carrier, the pornography beetle, let our battle standard and that of our communities be taken from that famous ensign of early America, ‘Don’t tread on me.’”

Thomas S. Monson, “Pornography, the Deadly Carrier”, July 2001

“Let us join in the fervent declaration of Joshua: ‘Choose you this day whom ye will serve; … but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.’  Let our hearts be pure. Let our lives be clean. Let our voices be heard. Let our actions be felt.”

Thomas S. Monson, “Pornography, the Deadly Carrier”, July 2001

“Satan has become a master at using the addictive power of pornography to limit individual capacity to be led by the Spirit. The onslaught of pornography in all of its vicious, corroding, destructive forms has caused great grief, suffering, heartache, and destroyed marriages. It is one of the most damning influences on earth. Whether it be through the printed page, movies, television, obscene lyrics, vulgarities on the telephone, or flickering personal computer screen, pornography is overpoweringly addictive and severely damaging. This potent tool of Lucifer degrades the mind and the heart and the soul of any who use it. All who are caught in its seductive, tantalizing web and remain so will become addicted to its immoral, destructive influence.”

Richard G. Scott, “To Acquire Spiritual Guidance”, November 2009

 

               I know from experiences in my life how destructive pornography is.  My father has dealt with his own issues with pornography.  I do not know how long it has been an issue, or if it still is.  There were times where he would watch it while I was in the same room, not thinking I knew what he was doing.  It is something that has forever damaged my relationship with him.

               Like any sin, a person can be forgiven of this, and with the Lord’s help, can turn his or her life back to God.  It is a struggle, however, and a battle that the individual must be willing to fight.  But to salvage relationships, hopefully those dealing with the problem of pornography can set their priorities so that the fight is worth the trials.

Family

"Certainly there are times when getting the family together to read the scriptures does not stack up as a spiritual experience worthy of a journal entry. But we must not be deterred. There are special times when the spirit of a son or daughter is just right and the power of these great scriptures goes down into their heart like fire. As we honor our Heavenly Father in our homes, He will honor our efforts."

Neil L. Andersen, “Prophets and Spiritual Mole Crickets”, November 1999

"Now, fathers, I would remind you of the sacred nature of your calling. You have the power of the priesthood directly from the Lord to protect your home. There will be times when all that stands as a shield between your family and the adversary's mischief will be that power. You will receive direction from the Lord by way of the gift of the Holy Ghost."

Boyd K. Packer, “The Power of the Priesthood”, May 2010
 

"A happy home is but an earlier heaven. President George Albert Smith asked, '[Do] we want our homes to be happy[?] If we do, let them be the abiding place of prayer, thanksgiving and gratitude' (in Conference Report, Apr. 1944, 32)."

Thomas S. Monson, “Precious Children, a Gift from God”, June 2000

"In these last days it is essential—even critical—that parents and children listen to and learn from one another."

M. Russell Ballard, “Mothers and Daughters”, May 2010

"To parents everywhere, my counsel is simple: Get a copy of 'The Family: A Proclamation to the World.' Read it and strive to align your marriage and your family to its inspired, revealed direction from the Lord."

M. Russell Ballard, “The Sacred Responsibilities of Parenthood”, March 2006

"Let us open wide the windows of our hearts, that each family member may feel welcome and 'at home.' Let us open also the doors of our very souls, that the dear Christ may enter. Remember His promise: 'Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him' (Revelation 3:20)."

Thomas S. Monson, “Hallmarks of a Happy Home”, October 2001

"Etched in sacred scripture is a commandment to 'set in order thy house' (D&C 93:44). Once we as parents understand the importance and meaning of that commandment, we need to learn how to do it."

Russell M. Nelson, “Set in Order Thy House”, November 2001

“We teach that God’s love for His children is infinite. Regardless of race, nationality, or gender, He loves all of them. He has done so from the beginning and will continue to do so. He invites all to gain eternal exaltation for their family.”

Russell M. Nelson, “Generations Linked in Love”, May 2010

“Our most important and powerful assignments are in the family. They are important because the family has the opportunity at the start of a child’s life to put feet firmly on the path home. Parents, brothers and sisters, grandparents, aunts and uncles are made more powerful guides and rescuers by the bonds of love that are the very nature of a family.”

Henry B. Eyring, “Help Them On Their Way Home”, May 2010

"Through the restored gospel we learn there is an ideal family. It is a family composed of a righteous Melchizedek Priesthood bearer with a righteous wife sealed to him and children born in the covenant or sealed to them. With a mother in the home in an environment of love and service, the parents teach their children, through example and precept, the ways of the Lord and His truths."

Richard G. Scott, “First Things First”, May 2001

 

               I have always known how important families are.  With my major being Child Development, several of my classes overlap with teaching about the family, and the importance and influence they have in an individual’s life.  I have also learned how important family is to God’s plan of happiness.  It is a key component.  I have learned more of the type of family I hope to have some day.  Not only the type of family I hope for, but the type of family I will work to build. 

               Parents each have different roles that are divinely important.  One is not greater than the other.  They are central to the mother and father individually, as a couple, and as parents.  When there is discord in the family, it will have a greater influence than many might think it would.

Agency

"Sometimes the Lord reveals truth to you when you are not actively seeking it, such as when you are in danger and do not know it. However, the Lord will not force you to learn. You must exercise your agency to authorize the Spirit to teach you. As you make this practice in your life, you will be more perceptive to the feelings that come with spiritual guidance."

Richard G. Scott, “To Acquire Spiritual Guidance”, November 2009


"We have implanted in our souls a desire to be free. The Lord understood this when He granted us our mortal probation. With that freedom, however, comes accountability. We are instructed not to idle away our time nor bury our talents and not use them. We are expected to make our lives better through our own initiatives and efforts."

L. Tom Perry, “Youth of the Noble Birthright”, November 1998

"Wise parents prepare their children to get along without them. They provide opportunities for growth as children acquire the spiritual maturity to exercise their agency properly. And yes, this means children will sometimes make mistakes and learn from them."

Larry Y. Wilson, “Only Upon the Principles of Righteousness”, April 2012

“Brothers and sisters, in a world where everyone is granted agency, some of our loved ones may stray for a season. But we can never give up. We must always go back for them—we must never stop trying.”

Bradley D. Foster, “Mother Told Me”, May 2010

“Agency—our power to choose—is fundamental to the gospel plan that brings us to earth. God does not intervene to forestall the consequences of some persons’ choices in order to protect the well-being of other persons—even when they kill, injure, or oppress one another—for this would destroy His plan for our eternal progress (compare Alma 42:8). He will bless us to endure the consequences of others’ choices, but He will not prevent those choices (compare Mosiah 24:14–15).”

Dallin H. Oaks, “Love and Law”, November 2009

"We were given our agency. We must use it wisely and remain close to the Spirit; otherwise, we foolishly find ourselves yielding to the enticements of the adversary. We know that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ our mistakes can be washed clean, and our mortal body will be restored to its perfect frame.”

Boyd K. Packer, “Prayer and Promptings”, November 2009

“Impressions of the Spirit can come in response to urgent prayer or unsolicited when needed. Sometimes the Lord reveals truth to you when you are not actively seeking it, such as when you are in danger and do not know it. However, the Lord will not force you to learn. You must exercise your agency to authorize the Spirit to teach you. As you make this a practice in your life, you will be more perceptive to the feelings that come with spiritual guidance. Then, when that guidance comes, sometimes when you least expect it, you will recognize it more easily.”

Richard G. Scott, “To Acquire Spiritual Guidance”, November 2009

“Being provident providers, we must keep that most basic commandment, ‘Thou shalt not covet’ (Exodus 20:17). Our world is fraught with feelings of entitlement. . . . If our family does not have everything the neighbors have, . . . we go into debt to buy things we can’t afford—and things we do not really need. Whenever we do this, we become poor temporally and spiritually.”

Robert D. Hales, “Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually”, May 2009

"We tend to think of agency as a personal matter. If we ask someone to define 'moral agency,' the answer will probably be something like this: 'Moral agency means I am free to make choices for myself.' Often overlooked is the fact that choices have consequences; we forget also that agency offers the same privilege of choice to others. At times we will be affected adversely by the way other people choose to exercise their agency. Our Heavenly Father feels so strongly about protecting our agency that he allows his children to exercise it, either for good or for evil."

M. Russell Ballard, “Answers to Life’s Questions”, May 1995

"Endowed with agency, you and I are agents, and we primarily are to act and not just be acted upon. To believe that someone or something can make us feel offended, angry, hurt, or bitter diminishes our moral agency and transforms us into objects to be acted upon. As agents, however, you and I have the power to act and to choose how we will respond to an offensive or hurtful situation."

David A. Bednar, “And Nothing Shall Offend Them”, November 2006


       In the premortal existence, we were given a choice.  Lucifer presented a plan, which gave us the chance to surely return back to our father in Heaven.  All we had to do was do exactly as he said.  The plan Jesus presented was very different from Lucifer's.  We would have a choice in all of our actions.  While we would have this freedom, the chance is there that we will not make it back to God's presence.
       Clearly, the plan that won was Christ's.  We have the great gift of agency.  We are able to make our own choices.  When an action is done because it is truly what we believe, and who we are, and not because we are forced into it, it is so much more meaningful.  It shows that we are making those decisions because it's who we are inside.  It's a matter of "being", and not simply "doing".

The Atonement

"If any has stumbled in his journey, there is a way back. The process is called repentance. Our Savior died to provide you and me that blessed gift. Though the path is difficult, the promise is real: 'Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow' (Isaiah 1:18)."
Thomas S. Monson, "Preperation Brings Blessings", May 2010

"Our understanding of and faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ will provide strength and capacity needed for a successful life."

Richard G. Scott, "He Lives!  All glory to His name!", May 2010

 

"Why must we love the Lord? Because as we do so, we become refined, pure, and holy. When we love the Lord, the benefits of the Atonement can wash away our earthly stain. Though our sins be as scarlet, they can become white as snow (see Isaiah 1:18), and we can become new creatures, filled with new life, new thoughts, and a renewed desire to do good continually."

Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Two Guiding Lights", August 2007

 

 "My dear young friends, when the captain of a long-range jet passes the point of safe return, and the headwinds are too strong or the cruising altitudes too low, he might be forced to divert to an airport other than his planned destination. This is not so in our journey through life back to our heavenly home. Wherever you find yourselves on this journey through life, whatever trials you may face, there is always a point of safe return; there is always hope. You are the captain of your life, and God has prepared a plan to bring you safely back to Him, to your divine destination."
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Is There a Point of No Return?", June 2010

"If you have felt the influence of the Holy Ghost today, you may take it as evidence that the Atonement is working in your life. For that reason and many others, you would do well to put yourself in places and in tasks that invite the promptings of the Holy Ghost. Feeling the influence of the Holy Ghost works both ways: the Holy Ghost only dwells in a clean temple, and the reception of the Holy Ghost cleanses us through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. You can pray with faith to know what to do to be cleansed and thus qualified for the companionship of the Holy Ghost and the service of the Lord. And with that companionship you will be strengthened against temptation and empowered to detect deception."

Henry B. Eyring, "Gifts of the Spirit for Hard Times", June 2007

 

“There is an imperative need for each of us to strengthen our understanding of the significance of the Atonement of Jesus Christ so that it will become an unshakable foundation upon which to build our lives.”

Richard G. Scott, "He Lives!  All Glory to His Name!", May 2010

 

“We knew that our purpose was to gain a physical body, to overcome trials, and to prove that we would keep the commandments of God. Our Father knew that because of the nature of mortality, we would be tempted, would sin, and would fall short. So that we might have every chance of success, He provided a Savior, who would suffer and die for us.”

Thomas S. Monson, " He Is Risen!", May 2010

 

“In the end, the central purpose of all scripture is to fill our souls with faith in God the Father and in His Son, Jesus Christ—faith that They exist; faith in the Father’s plan for our immortality and eternal life; faith in the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which animates this plan of happiness; faith to make the gospel of Jesus Christ our way of life; and faith to come to know ‘the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom [He has] sent’ (John 17:3).”

D. Todd Christofferson, "The Blessing of the Scripture", May 2010

 

“There is no greater evidence of the infinite power and perfection of God’s love than is declared by the Apostle John: ‘For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son’ (John 3:16). Another Apostle wrote that God ‘spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all’ (Romans 8:32). Think how it must have grieved our Heavenly Father to send His Son to endure incomprehensible suffering for our sins. That is the greatest evidence of His love for each of us!”

Dallin H. Oaks, "Love and Law", November 2009

 

“Those who repent will be particularly blessed by the Atonement. Without the Atonement, the eternal principle of justice would require punishment (see Alma 42:14). Because of the Atonement, mercy can prevail for those who have repented and allow them to return to the presence of God (see Alma 42:15).”

Quentin L. Cook, "Strengthen Faith as You Seek Knowledge", September 2008

 

       I have such a strong testimony of the Atonement.  Christ loved each of us so much-- not only did He so love us as a whole, but He knew us and cared for us individually.  He knew that there needed to be justice, and He feared for us, knowing there would be great expectations we needed to meet.  Knowing the daunting task, He stepped in front of us, taking the bitter cup from us, blocking us from the blow and taking the brunt of it. 

       Christ gave us this way to come back to our Heavenly Father.  He set the way and cleared the path.  All we need to do now is take His hand and follow Him.