Daily Gems

Testimony

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Elder Dallin H. Oaks defined a testimony this way: ‘A testimony of the gospel is a personal witness borne to our souls by the Holy Ghost that certain facts of eternal significance are true and that we know them to be true’ (Dallin H. Oaks, “Testimony” Ensign, May 2008, 26). At another time Elder Oaks said, ‘Testimony is to know and to feel, conversion is to do and to become’ (Dallin H. Oaks, quoted in Kenneth Johnson, “Coming to Know for Ourselves,” Ensign, July 2008, 29).”

Allan F. Packer, “Finding Strength in Challenging Times!” Ensign, May 2009, 17

Topics: Testimony, Conversion

Maximize Virtues and Blessings

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Brethren, we should be earnest students of revealed priesthood and quorum principles. Our goal is to correctly use inspired direction from God and His prophets to maximize the virtues and blessings of the quorum and strengthen young men and their families. The work of the quorum is to increase faith in Christ, prepare and save young men, and eliminate mistakes and sloth in implementing God’s will. As we seek wisdom from God let us also be students of revealed quorum principles.”

Michael A. Neider, “Revealed Quorum Principles,” Ensign, May 2009, 14

Topics: Priesthood Blessings, Faith

The Examples We Need to Be

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 MST

“May I suggest that our ability and our credibility to exemplify reverence for God is strengthened as we show respect for each other. In today’s society, the standards of decorum, dignity, and courtesy are assailed on every side and in every form of media. As parents and leaders, our examples of respect for each other are critical for our youth and children because they are watching not only the media—they are watching us! Are we the examples we need to be?”

Margaret S. Lifferth, “Respect and Reverence,” Ensign, May 2009, 11

Topics: Parenthood, Example

Tithing: Foundation of Provident Living

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 MST

“The foundation of provident living is the law of the tithe. The primary purpose of this law is to help us develop faith in our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Tithing helps us overcome our desires for the things of this world and willingly make sacrifices for others.”

Robert D. Hales, “Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually,” Ensign, May 2009, 9

Topics: Family, Financial Management

We Must Exercise Faith

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 MST

“In Moroni we read that ‘without faith there cannot be any hope’ (Moroni 7:42). We must exercise faith to take on life’s challenges and changes. It is how we learn and progress.”

Steven E. Snow, “Get On with Our Lives,” Ensign, May 2009, 81

Topics: Faith

The Door to True Happiness

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 01:00:00 MST

“The gospel of Jesus Christ has the answers to all of our problems. The gospel is not a secret. It is not complicated or hidden. It can unlock the door to true happiness. It is not someone’s theory or proposition. It does not come from man at all. It springs from the pure and everlasting waters of the Creator of the universe, who knows truths we cannot even begin to comprehend. And with that knowledge, He has given us the gospel—a divine gift, the ultimate formula for happiness and success.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Way of the Disciple,” Ensign, May 2009, 75

Topics: Gospel of Jesus Christ

A Great Work

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 01:00:00 MST

“We cannot and we must not allow ourselves to get distracted from our sacred duty. We cannot and we must not lose focus on the things that matter most.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down,” Ensign, May 2009, 60

Topics: Proclaim the Gospel

Teaching Our Youth

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 01:00:00 MST

“President [J. Reuben] Clark [taught]: ‘You do not have to sneak up behind this spiritually experienced youth and whisper religion in [their] ears; you can come right out, face to face, and talk with [them].’ ”

Boyd K. Packer, “Counsel to Young Men,” Ensign, May 2009, 50

Topics: Youth

The Plan of Salvation

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 01:00:00 MST

“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,” Ensign, May 2009, 37

Topics: Plan of Salvation

We Are Our Brother’s Keeper

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 01:00:00 MST

“Now, let me say a few words to those of you who are currently unemployed. The responsibility for finding employment or improving your employment rests with you. Continued guidance comes from the Lord through regular fasting and prayer. Your quorum leaders, bishops, specialists, and employment resource center staff will help in your efforts. We fear, however, that often priesthood leaders are unaware of your situation. Speak up! Let them know you are looking for work. And bishops and priesthood leaders, rise up and let the brotherhood of the priesthood engage themselves in the wonderful opportunity to truly be a quorum, a brotherhood, a brother’s keeper.”

Richard C. Edgley, “This Is Your Phone Call,” Ensign, May 2009, 54–55

Topics: Welfare

Walk in Obedience

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Read section 89 in the Doctrine and Covenants. You will find great promises:‘All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones;‘And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures;‘And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.’ ”

Boyd K. Packer, “Counsel to Young Men,” Ensign, May 2009, 50

Topics: Obedience

Lifting Burdens: The Atonement of Jesus Christ

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

Watch and share a new Mormon Messages video, " Lifting Burdens: The Atonement of Jesus Christ" in which Apostles of Jesus Christ testify of the Saviors power to heal, change, and purify us through His Atonement.

Mormon Messages,

Be an Example

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“May each of us strive to be ‘an example of the believers.’ May we live the gospel of Jesus Christ and do all that is asked of us, and may we do these things in faith, nothing wavering, with a pure and virtuous heart.”

Ann M. Dibb, “Be Thou an Example of the Believers,” Ensign, May 2009, 116

Topics: Example

The Temple

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Now, my brothers and sisters, we have built temples throughout the world and will continue to do so. To you who are worthy and able to attend the temple, I would admonish you to go often. The temple is a place where we can find peace. There we receive a renewed dedication to the gospel and a strengthened resolve to keep the commandments.”

Thomas S. Monson, “Until We Meet Again,” Ensign, May 2009, 112

Topics: Temple Work

Sharing the Gospel

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“It should be ‘with great earnestness’ (D&C 123:14) that we bring the light of the gospel to those who are searching for answers the plan of salvation has to offer. Many are concerned for their families. Some are looking for security in a world of changing values. Our opportunity is to give them hope and courage and to invite them to come with us and join those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Lord’s gospel is on earth and will bless their lives here and in the eternities to come.”

L. Tom Perry, “Bring Souls unto Me,” Ensign, May 2009, 110

Topics: Proclaim the Gospel

Recipients of the Lord’s Tender Mercies

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“We as faithful Saints have been strengthened by adversity and are the recipients of the Lord’s tender mercies. We have moved forward under the promise of the Lord: ‘I will not suffer that [mine enemies] shall destroy my work; yea, I will show unto them that my wisdom is greater than the cunning of the devil’ (D&C 10:43).”

David A. Bednar, “Honorably Hold a Name and Standing,” Ensign, May 2009, 99

Topics: Temple Work

Forget Yourself in the Service of Others

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“It is not easy to give up our personal priorities and desires. . . . [But] ‘he who lives only unto himself withers and dies, while he who forgets himself in the service of others grows and blossoms in this life and in eternity’ (Gordon B. Hinckley, Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [1997], 588).”

Dallin H. Oaks, “Unselfish Service,” Ensign, May 2009, 93

Topics: Service

Joy in Our Lives

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“How might we have joy in our lives, despite all that we may face? Again from the scriptures: ‘Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you.’ ”

Thomas S. Monson, “Be of Good Cheer,” Ensign, May 2009, 89

Topics: Joy

The Good News

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“The gospel is the good news of Christ. It is the revelation that the Son of God came to earth, lived a perfect life, atoned for our sins, and conquered death. It is the path of salvation, the way of hope and joy, and the assurance that God has a plan of redemption and happiness for His children.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Way of the Disciple,” Ensign, May 2009, 75

Topics: Gospel of Jesus Christ

Hungry for Things of the Spirit

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“President [J. Reuben] Clark described youth as ‘hungry for things of the Spirit [and] eager to learn the gospel.’ He said: ‘They want it straight, undiluted. They want to know . . . about our beliefs; they want to gain testimonies of their truth. They are not now doubters but inquirers, seekers after truth.’ ”

Boyd K. Packer, “Counsel to Young Men,” Ensign, May 2009, 50

Topics: Testimony

Covenants and the Holy Ghost

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“When we have entered into divine covenants, the Holy Ghost is our comforter, our guide, and our companion. The fruits of the Holy Spirit are ‘the peaceable things of immortal glory; the truth of all things; that which quickeneth all things, which maketh alive all things; that which knoweth all things, and hath all power according to wisdom, mercy, truth, justice, and judgment’ (Moses 6:61). The gifts of the Holy Spirit are testimony, faith, knowledge, wisdom, revelations, miracles, healing, and charity, to name but a few (see D&C 46:13–26).”

D. Todd Christofferson, “The Power of Covenants,” Ensign, May 2009, 22

Topics: Gifts of the Spirit

Working through Adversity to Help Others

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Age and illness can test the best of us. My friend served as our bishop when my daughters were still at home. . . .“I visited him in his home from time to time to thank him and to give him priesthood blessings. His health began a slow decline. I can’t remember all the ailments he suffered. . . . He was in constant pain. Yet every time I visited to give him comfort, he turned the tables; I was always the one comforted. His back and legs forced him to use a cane to walk. Yet there he was in church, always sitting near the door, where he could greet those arriving early, with a smile.”

Henry B. Eyring, “Adversity,” Ensign, May 2009, 26

Topics: Serving Others, Gratitude

A More Righteousness Generation

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“With all my heart I hope and pray that you will be wise enough to learn the lessons of the past. You don’t have to spend time as a Laman or a Lemuel in order to know that it’s much better to be a Nephi or a Jacob. You don’t have to follow the path of Cain or Gadianton in order to realize that ‘wickedness never was happiness’ (Alma 41:10).”

M. Russell Ballard, “Learning the Lessons of the Past,” Ensign, May 2009, 33

Topics: Example, Righteousness

Attain Eternal Life with Our Families

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“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,” Ensign, May 2009, 37

Topics: Repentance, Plan of Salvation

Overcoming Fear with Faith

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Faith and fear cannot coexist. One gives way to the other. The simple fact is we all need to constantly build faith and overcome sources of destructive disbelief. The Savior’s teaching comparing faith to a grain of mustard seed recognizes this reality (see Matthew 13:31–32). Consider it this way: our net usable faith is what we have left to exercise after we subtract our sources of doubt and disbelief. . . . If your faith exceeds your doubt and disbelief, the answer is likely positive. If you allow doubt and disbelief to control you, the answer might be negative.”

Kevin W. Pearson, “Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ,” Ensign, May 2009, 40

Topics: Opposition, Choice and Accountability

Accepting God’s Will under Difficult Circumstances

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“I witnessed how [a] faithful family dealt with great adversity. Several members of the Quero family had died in a terrible car accident. Brother Abraham Quero lost his parents, two sisters, his brother-in-law and his niece in that accident. Brother Quero showed an admirable attitude when he said the following: ‘This was the time to show loyalty to God and to acknowledge that we depend on Him, that His will must be obeyed, and that we are subject to Him.’ ”

Rafael E. Pino, “Faith in Adversity,” Ensign, May 2009, 41

Topics: Plan of Salvation, Adversity

Learning from Difficult Experiences

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Fourteen years ago the Lord took my wife beyond the veil. I love her with all my heart, but I have never complained because I know it was His will. I have never asked why but rather what is it that He wants me to learn from this experience. I believe that is a good way to face the unpleasant things in our lives, not complaining but thanking the Lord for the trust He places in us when He gives us the opportunity to overcome difficulties.”

Richard G. Scott, “Temple Worship: The Source of Strength and Power in Times of Need,” Ensign, May 2009, 45

Topics: , Temple Work

The Lord’s Will Be Done

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 MST

“When should we pray? Whenever we desire! Alma taught, ‘Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good’ (Alma 37:37). . . . Jesus reminded His disciples ‘that they should not cease to pray in their hearts’ (3 Nephi 20:1). The practice of Church members is to kneel in family prayer each morning and evening, plus having daily personal prayers and blessings on our food (see Ensign, Jan. 1976, 11).”

Russell M. Nelson, “Lessons from the Lord’s Prayers,” Ensign, May 2009, 48

Topics: Humility, Family

Our Test in Mortality

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Our challenges, including those we create by our own decisions, are part of our test in mortality. Let me assure you that your situation is not beyond the reach of our Savior. Through Him, every struggle can be for our experience and our good (see D&C 122:7). Each temptation we overcome is to strengthen us, not destroy us. The Lord will never allow us to suffer beyond what we can endure (see 1 Corinthians 10:13). “We must remember that the adversary knows us extremely well. He knows where, when, and how to tempt us. If we are obedient to the promptings of the Holy Ghost, we can learn to recognize the adversary’s enticements. Before we yield to temptation, we must learn to say with unflinching resolve, ‘Get thee behind me, Satan’ (Matthew 16:23).”

Robert D. Hales, “Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually,” Ensign, May 2009, 7

Topics: Enduring to the End, Purpose of Mortality

Learning by Personal Experience

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“It is clear that for us to have [God’s] gift [of eternal life] and to be given [the] trust [of our Heavenly Father], we must be transformed through making righteous choices where that is hard to do. We are prepared for so great a trust by passing through trying and testing experiences in mortality. That education can come only as we are subject to trials while serving God and others for Him.”

Henry B. Eyring, “Adversity,” Ensign, May 2009, 24

Topics: Righteousness, Atonement, Sacrifice

Power through Covenants

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“A covenant is an agreement between God and man, an accord whose terms are set by God (see Bible Dictionary, “Covenant,” 651). In these divine agreements, God binds Himself to sustain, sanctify, and exalt us in return for our commitment to serve Him and keep His commandments. “We enter into covenants by priesthood ordinances, sacred rituals that God has ordained for us to manifest our commitment. . . . If we are faithful, we become inheritors not only of the celestial kingdom but of exaltation, the highest glory within the heavenly kingdom, and we obtain all the divine possibilities God can give (D&C 132:20).”

D. Todd Christofferson, “The Power of Covenants,” Ensign, May 2009, 20

Topics: Temple Work, Priesthood Keys

How We Receive Inspiration

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“When the winds blow and the rains pour, they blow and pour on all. Those who have built their foundations on bedrock rather than sand survive the storms (see Matthew 7:24–27). There is a way to build on bedrock by developing a deep personal conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ and knowing how to receive inspiration. We must know—and know that we know. We must stand spiritually and temporally independent of all worldly creatures (see D&C 78:14). This begins by understanding that God the Father is the Father of our spirits and that He loves us, that Jesus Christ is our Redeemer and Savior, and that the Holy Ghost can communicate with our minds and our hearts (see D&C 8:2–3). This is how we receive inspiration. We need to learn how to recognize and apply these promptings.”

Allan F. Packer, “Finding Strength in Challenging Times!” Ensign, May 2009, 17

Topics: , Conversion

That Which Perisheth Not

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“With all the love I have in me and with the Savior’s love through me, I invite you to come unto Him and hear His words: ‘Wherefore do not spend money for that which is of no worth, nor your labor for that which cannot satisfy. Hearken diligently unto me, and remember the words which I have spoken; and come unto the Holy One of Israel, and feast upon that which perisheth not, neither can be corrupted’ (2 Nephi 9:51).”

Robert D. Hales, “Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually,” Ensign, May 2009, 10

Topics: Commandments, Temptation, Atonement

Reverence in Our Meetings

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“As parents and leaders, we must set the example of reverent behavior in our Church meetings. Our chapels provide places for many different functions, but on Sunday they are places of worship.”

Margaret S. Lifferth, “Respect and Reverence,” Ensign, May 2009, 13

Topics: Spirituality, Worship

Inspiration of the Spirit

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Our Church leaders have taught and we have felt the Spirit invite the use of inspired questions given of the Spirit to help us learn of God and His will for us (see Henry B. Eyring, “Elder David A. Bednar: Going Forward in the Strength of the Lord,” Ensign, Mar. 2005, 16-21).”

Michael A. Neider, “Revealed Quorum Principles,” Ensign, May 2009, 14

Topics: Spirituality, Prayer

How Inspiration Comes

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“While testimonies can come as dramatic manifestations, they usually do not. Sometimes people think they need to have an experience like Joseph Smith’s vision before they gain testimonies. If we have unrealistic expectations of how, when, or where answers come, we risk missing the answers which come as quiet, reassuring feelings and thoughts that most often come after our prayers, while we are doing something else. These answers can be equally convincing and powerful. “Over time we will receive answers and learn how inspiration comes. This is something each person learns for himself.”

Allan F. Packer, “Finding Strength in Challenging Times!” Ensign, May 2009, 18

Topics: Testimony, Revelation, Holy Ghost

Entering into Binding Covenants

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“I testify that in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is found the priesthood authority to administer the ordinances by which we can enter into binding covenants with our Heavenly Father in the name of His Holy Son. I testify that God will keep His promises to you as you honor your covenants with Him.”

D. Todd Christofferson, “The Power of Covenants,” Ensign, May 2009, 22

Topics: Obedience, Faith

Being Purified in the Lord’s True Church

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“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 ,” Ensign, May 2009, 27

Topics: Plan of Salvation

Process to Gain a Testimony

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“You gain a vibrant, life-changing testimony today the same way it has always been done. The process hasn’t been changed. It comes through desire, study, prayer, obedience, and service. That is why the teachings of prophets and apostles, past and present, are as relevant to your life today as they ever have been.”

M. Russell Ballard, “Learning the Lessons of the Past,” Ensign, May 2009, 34

Topics: Obedience, Testimony, Faith

True Destination

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Early European converts [sailing to America] . . . had overcome many stumbling blocks. They had a testimony that revelation comes from heaven and that prophets and apostles are again on the earth. They had faith in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. “They had come to understand the sublime destination that was in store for them. They were not fearful of the arduous journey they were undertaking, and their ultimate destination was not really the Salt Lake Valley. Their true destination was paradise followed by exaltation in the celestial kingdom.”

Quentin L. Cook, “Our Father’s Plan—Big Enough for All His Children,” Ensign, May 2009, 37

Topics: Revelation, Gospel of Jesus Christ

Influences That Erode Faith

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“First is doubt. . . . It comes from a lack of confidence in one’s self or abilities. It is inconsistent with our divine identity as children of God. “Doubt leads to discouragement. Discouragement comes from missed expectations. . . . Discouragement leads to distraction, a lack of focus. . . . Distraction leads to a lack of diligence, a reduced commitment to remain true and faithful and to carry on through despite hardship and disappointment. . . . This path ultimately leads to disobedience, which undermines the very basis of faith. So often the result is disbelief, the conscious or unconscious refusal to believe.”

Kevin W. Pearson, “Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ,” Ensign, May 2009, 40

Topics: Consequences of Sin, Obedience

Finding Hope

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

Watch and share a new Mormon Messages video, " Finding Hope" in which a man describes his journey from the tragedy and trauma of 9/11 to hope, healing, and renewal through Jesus Christ.

Mormon Messages,

Topics: Adversity, Hope

Endure Adversity More Confidently

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“There is no infirmity, affliction, or adversity that Christ did not feel in Gethsemane. . . .“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).”

Rafael E. Pino, “Faith in Adversity,” Ensign, May 2009, 41–42

Topics: Gospel of Jesus Christ

Sealing Power for the Eternities

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Fourteen years ago the Lord decided it was not necessary for my wife to live any longer on the earth, and He took her to the other side of the veil. I confess that there are times when it is difficult not to be able to turn and talk to her, but I do not complain. The Lord has allowed me, at important moments in my life, to feel her influence through the veil. . . . “What a blessing to have once again on the earth the sealing authority, not only for this mortal life but for the eternities.”

Richard G. Scott, “Temple Worship: The Source of Strength and Power in Times of Need,” Ensign, May 2009, 45

Topics: Adversity, Temple Work

Inviting the Lord into Our Lives

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Prayer begins with individual initiative. ‘Behold,’ saith the Lord, ‘I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me’ (Revelation 3:20). That door is opened when we pray to our Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ (see 3 Nephi 18:20; D&C 88:64). . . .“Let us ever pray ‘that [the Lord’s] kingdom may go forth upon the earth, that the inhabitants . . . may . . . be prepared for the days . . . [when] the Son of Man shall come down . . . in the brightness of his glory, to meet the kingdom of God which is set up on the earth’ (D&C 65:5). In our daily lives and in our own crucial hours, may we fervently apply these precious lessons from the Lord.”

Russell M. Nelson, “Lessons from the Lord’s Prayers,” Ensign, May 2009, 48

Topics: Kingdom of God, Prayer, Second Coming

Prepared through Adversity for Eternal Life

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“With all the differences in our lives, we have at least one challenge in common. We all must deal with adversity. . . . It is in the nature of our being human that comfort gives way to distress, periods of good health come to an end, and misfortunes arrive. . . . The arrival of suffering or the loss of material security can bring fear and sometimes even anger. . . . “The very opportunity for us to face adversity and affliction is part of the evidence of [Heavenly Father and the Savior’s] infinite love. God gave us the gift of living in mortality so that we could be prepared to receive the greatest of all the gifts of God, which is eternal life.”

Henry B. Eyring, “Adversity,” Ensign, May 2009, 23

Topics: Adversity, Exaltation

Faith and Spiritual Strength

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“We need strong Christians who can persevere against hardship, who can sustain hope through tragedy, who can lift others by their example and their compassion, and who can consistently overcome temptations. We need strong Christians who can make important things happen by their faith and who can defend the truth of Jesus Christ against moral relativism and militant atheism.”

D. Todd Christofferson, “The Power of Covenants,” Ensign, May 2009, 19–20

Topics: Hope, Adversity, Gratitude

Wonderful Time to Be Alive

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Individuals and families across the world are challenged by current conditions. While I believe there are serious challenges ahead, I also know it is a wonderful time to be alive, especially for the youth. I see my children and grandchildren having full, satisfying lives even as they have challenges, setbacks, and obstacles to overcome. “These are the days when prophecies are being fulfilled. We live in the dispensation of the fulness of times, which is the time to prepare for the Savior’s return. It is also the time to work out our own salvation.”

Allan F. Packer, “Finding Strength in Challenging Times!” Ensign, May 2009, 17

Topics: Adversity, Second Coming

Commitment to Be Virtuous

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“As I hear the young women of the Church quote the Young Women theme, my desire and commitment to be virtuous and to be holy are strengthened. As bearers of the holy priesthood, we should see that the sisters are not the only examples of virtue. “The Lord has commanded each of us, in section 38 of the Doctrine and Covenants, to be virtuous: ‘And let every man esteem his brother as himself, and practise virtue and holiness before me’ (D&C 38:24).”

Michael A. Neider, “Revealed Quorum Principles,” Ensign, May 2009, 14

Topics: Example, Womanhood

Nourishing the Souls of Our Children

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Three times the Savior asks, ‘Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?’And each time, when Peter assures the Savior of his love, Jesus ‘saith unto him, Feed my lambs. . . . Feed my sheep’ (John 21:15–17). “There is great need in today’s world to nourish the souls of our children and youth with ‘living water’ (John 4:10–14) and the ‘bread of life’ (John 6:48). Like Peter, we too love the Lord, so today’s parents and leaders work diligently to instill in each heart a testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel.”

Margaret S. Lifferth, “Respect and Reverence,” Ensign, May 2009, 11

Topics: Gospel of Jesus Christ

Example of Service

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 MST

“Growing up during the Great Depression, President Thomas S. Monson learned how to serve others. Often his mother asked him to deliver food to needy neighbors, and she would give homeless men odd jobs in exchange for home-cooked meals. Later as a young bishop, he was taught by President J. Reuben Clark, ‘Be kind to the widow and look after the poor’ (in Thomas S. Monson, “A Provident Plan—A Precious Promise,” Ensign, May 1986, 62). President Monson looked after 84 widows and cared for them until they passed away.”

Robert D. Hales, “Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually,” Ensign, May 2009, 7

Topics: Example, Serving Others