Be of good cheer, there is Hope!

                For the better part of my life I have suffered from both depression and anxiety which at times has crippled me. I know just what it feels like to have to fight with every fiber of your being just to get out of bed in the morning. The aches and pains that come and go as well as the general lack of energy. I know just how hopelessness you can feel, the self-loathing, the anger, the apathy, the heartache, yearning to just feel happy for one second.

                I know how panic attacks can make you feel like you are going to die. The feeling of having a millstone on top of your chest as you attempt to breathe and the numbness that comes from hyperventilating. Crying to the point that you want to die as well as the need to just have someone understand and not just tell you to stop. I have had panic attacks so bad that the only thing that stopped them was lying in bed with both my parents to get the comfort needed.

                Most importantly I know that there is an end to all of this, these things that we suffer from are only for a small time in the eternal scheme of things. We are meant for so much more and if we lean on the Savior and His Atonement, we can learn from them, receive help for them, and one day become whole again. I have seen the hand of the Lord in my life time and time again and I know that there really is Hope for us all.

It really does matter if you feel broken, hopeless, lost, worthless, and any other number of lies that we tell ourselves. You are not alone, He has felt the weight of your feelings and wants to help you through them because He loves you. You can do this, you can keep fighting, you can push through this , manage it, and one day, overcome it.

 

Wisdom from the Prophets and Apostles:

 

Yet in my mind’s eye, for just an instant, I thought perhaps I saw on that side road an old car with a devoted young wife and two little children making the best of a bad situation there. Just ahead of them I imagined that I saw a young fellow walking toward Kanarraville, with plenty of distance still ahead of him. His shoulders seemed to be slumping a little, the weight of a young father’s fear evident in his pace. In the scriptural phrase his hands did seem to “hang down.”15 In that imaginary instant, I couldn’t help calling out to him: “Don’t give up, boy. Don’t you quit. You keep walking. You keep trying. There is help and happiness ahead—a lot of it—30 years of it now, and still counting. You keep your chin up. It will be all right in the end. Trust God and believe in good things to come.”
“An High Priest of Good Things to Come”, Jeffrey R. Holland, General Conference, 10/1999

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Even if you cannot always see that silver lining on your clouds, God can, for He is the very source of the light you seek. He does love you, and He knows your fears. He hears your prayers. He is your Heavenly Father, and surely He matches with His own the tears His children shed.
“An High Priest of Good Things to Come”, Jeffrey R. Holland, General Conference, 10/1999

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Every one of us has times when we need to know things will get better. Moroni spoke of it in the Book of Mormon as “hope for a better world.”2 For emotional health and spiritual stamina, everyone needs to be able to look forward to some respite, to something pleasant and renewing and hopeful, whether that blessing be near at hand or still some distance ahead. It is enough just to know we can get there, that however measured or far away, there is the promise of “good things to come.” My declaration is that this is precisely what the gospel of Jesus Christ offers us, especially in times of need. There is help. There is happiness. There really is light at the end of the tunnel. It is the Light of the World, the Bright and Morning Star, the “light that is endless, that can never be darkened.”3 It is the very Son of God Himself. In loving praise far beyond Romeo’s reach, we say, “What light through yonder window breaks?” It is the return of hope, and Jesus is the Sun.4 To any who may be struggling to see that light and find that hope, I say: Hold on. Keep trying. God loves you. Things will improve. Christ comes to you in His “more excellent ministry” with a future of “better promises.” He is your “high priest of good things to come.”
“An High Priest of Good Things to Come”, Jeffrey R. Holland, General Conference, 10/1999

 

Our realization of what is most important in life goes hand in hand with gratitude for our blessings.
Finding Joy in the Journey, President Thomas S. Monson, General Conference, 10/2008

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...Brother Hess wrote—and I quote: “These things are important: temple marriage, mission, college. Press on, set goals, write history, take pictures twice a year.”5 Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family. One day each of us will run out of tomorrows.
Finding Joy in the Journey, President Thomas S. Monson, General Conference, 10/2008

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...Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Friends move away, children grow up, loved ones pass on. It’s so easy to take others for granted, until that day when they’re gone from our lives and we are left with feelings of “what if” and “if only.”...
Finding Joy in the Journey, President Thomas S. Monson, General Conference, 10/2008

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...Of course, there is no going back, but only forward. Rather than dwelling on the past, we should make the most of today, of the here and now, doing all we can to provide pleasant memories for the future.
Finding Joy in the Journey, President Thomas S. Monson, General Conference, 10/2008

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Stresses in our lives come regardless of our circumstances. We must deal with them the best we can. But we should not let them get in the way of what is most important—and what is most important almost always involves the people around us. Often we assume that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know....
Finding Joy in the Journey, President Thomas S. Monson, General Conference, 10/2008

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This is our one and only chance at mortal life—here and now. The longer we live, the greater is our realization that it is brief. Opportunities come, and then they are gone. I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and nonexistent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey—now.
Finding Joy in the Journey, President Thomas S. Monson, General Conference, 10/2008

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When we are grateful to God in our circumstances, we can experience gentle peace in the midst of tribulation. In grief, we can still lift up our hearts in praise. In pain, we can glory in Christ’s Atonement. In the cold of bitter sorrow, we can experience the closeness and warmth of heaven’s embrace. We sometimes think that being grateful is what we do after our problems are solved, but how terribly shortsighted that is. How much of life do we miss by waiting to see the rainbow before thanking God that there is rain? Being grateful in times of distress does not mean that we are pleased with our circumstances. It does mean that through the eyes of faith we look beyond our present-day challenges.
Grateful in Any Circumstances, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 4/2014

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But some might say, “What do I have to be grateful for when my world is falling apart?” Perhaps focusing on what we are grateful for is the wrong approach. It is difficult to develop a spirit of gratitude if our thankfulness is only proportional to the number of blessings we can count. True, it is important to frequently “count our blessings”—and anyone who has tried this knows there are many—but I don’t believe the Lord expects us to be less thankful in times of trial than in times of abundance and ease. In fact, most of the scriptural references do not speak of gratitude for things but rather suggest an overall spirit or attitude of gratitude. It is easy to be grateful for things when life seems to be going our way. But what then of those times when what we wish for seems to be far out of reach? Could I suggest that we see gratitude as a disposition, a way of life that stands independent of our current situation? In other words, I’m suggesting that instead of being thankful for things, we focus on being thankful in our circumstances—whatever they may be.
Grateful in Any Circumstances, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 4/2014

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Every person born into the world receives the Light of Christ, which helps us see and feel what is right and what is wrong. God has sent mortal servants who can, by the Holy Ghost, help us recognize what He would have us do and what He forbids. God makes it attractive to choose the right by letting us feel the effects of our choices. If we choose the right, we will find happiness—in time. If we choose evil, there comes sorrow and regret—in time. Those effects are sure. Yet they are often delayed for a purpose. If the blessings were immediate, choosing the right would not build faith. And since sorrow is also sometimes greatly delayed, it takes faith to feel the need to seek forgiveness for sin early rather than after we feel its sorrowful and painful effects.
A Priceless Heritage of Hope, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 4/2014

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Whatever your struggle, my brothers and sisters—mental or emotional or physical or otherwise—do not vote against the preciousness of life by ending it! Trust in God. Hold on in His love. Know that one day the dawn will break brightly and all shadows of mortality will flee. Though we may feel we are “like a broken vessel,” as the Psalmist says,10 we must remember, that vessel is in the hands of the divine potter. Broken minds can be healed just the way broken bones and broken hearts are healed. While God is at work making those repairs, the rest of us can help by being merciful, nonjudgmental, and kind.
Like a Broken Vessel, By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, General Conference, 10/2013

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So how do you best respond when mental or emotional challenges confront you or those you love? Above all, never lose faith in your Father in Heaven, who loves you more than you can comprehend. As President Monson said to the Relief Society sisters so movingly last Saturday evening: “That love never changes. … It is there for you when you are sad or happy, discouraged or hopeful. God’s love is there for you whether or not you feel you deserve [it]. It is simply always there.”4 Never, ever doubt that, and never harden your heart....
Like a Broken Vessel, By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, General Conference, 10/2013

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...A journalist once questioned Mother Teresa of Calcutta about her hopeless task of rescuing the destitute in that city. He said that, statistically speaking, she was accomplishing absolutely nothing. This remarkable little woman shot back that her work was about love, not statistics. Notwithstanding the staggering number beyond her reach, she said she could keep the commandment to love God and her neighbor by serving those within her reach with whatever resources she had. “What we do is nothing but a drop in the ocean,” she would say on another occasion. “But if we didn’t do it, the ocean would be one drop less [than it is].”9 Soberly, the journalist concluded that Christianity is obviously not a statistical endeavor. He reasoned that if there would be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over the ninety and nine who need no repentance, then apparently God is not overly preoccupied with percentages....
Are We Not All Beggars?, By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, General Conference, 10/2014

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I offer you my personal witness that spiritual truth will fill your heart and bring light to your spirit. It will reveal to you pure intelligence with wonderful joy and heavenly peace. I have experienced this for myself by the power of the Holy Ghost.
Receiving a Testimony of Light and Truth, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 10/2014

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We should remember the Savior, keep our covenants, and follow the Son of God as the young sunflower follows the sunshine. Following His light and example will bring us joy, happiness, and peace. As Psalm 27 and a favorite hymn both proclaim, “The Lord is my light and my salvation.”26
The Lord Is My Light, By Elder Quentin L. Cook, General Conference, 4/2015

 

The Father and the Son send the Holy Ghost to comfort and strengthen disciples of the Master in their journey. I saw this miracle of comfort as I arrived outside the chapel where the funeral of the little boy was to be held. I was stopped by a lovely young woman I did not recognize. She said that she was coming to the funeral to mourn and to give comfort if she could. She said that she had come to the funeral in part for comfort for herself. She told me that her first child had died recently. She was carrying in her arms a beautiful little girl. I leaned toward her to look into the little girl’s smiling face. I asked the baby’s mother, “What is her name?” Her quick and cheerful answer was “Her name is Joy. Joy always comes after sorrow.” She was bearing her witness to me. I could see that the peace and comfort had come to her from the only sure source. Only God knows hearts, and so only He can say, in truth, “I know how you feel.” So I can only imagine both her joy and the sorrow that preceded it, but the Lord, who loves her, knows. I can know only partially how much He feels joy each time you, as His disciple, help Him bring a moment of peace and joy to a child of our Heavenly Father.
The Comforter, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 4/2015

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The Spirit’s witness of the Atonement that came that night also strengthened Job to carry his load: “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: “And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God.”7 It was that witness of the Spirit that gave him strength to endure. He would pass through mourning and the lack of comfort from people around him to see the joy that would come to the faithful after passing faithfully through their trials.
The Comforter, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 4/2015

Learning by the Spirit

               

If there is one thing that I have learned in the last year of my life is that there is a big difference between learning entirely on your own and learning by/with the Spirit. It does not matter what the subject is, if it’s for school, church, or even just as a hobby. The ability for us to learn is enhanced if we strive to learn by the Spirit.

            In the last year of my life I have been blessed to be a part of a program the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers called “Pathways”. This program allows you to go to school through BYU Idaho at a reduced cost of $65.00 per credit hour. The first year are basic courses such as English and math alongside with meeting up with fellow students once a week to spend turns teaching one another. This has been a very enriching experience for me and has really taught me that God cares about every aspect of my life, even my academic studies. Before I started this program I would have never connected going to school with God, but as we are here to learn, grow, and are promised help through the Holy Ghost, it makes complete sense now.

            Learning anything and everything by the Spirit is a wonderful gift and if you truly want to know something on a deeper level, then tap into that gift and learn things you didn’t even know you could.

 

Wisdom from the Prophets and Apostles:

Now, brothers and sisters, we have available to us a tool even more remarkable than the best GPS. Everyone loses his or her way at some point, to some degree. It is through the promptings of the Holy Ghost that we can be brought safely back onto the right path, and it is the atoning sacrifice of the Savior that can return us home.

That the Lost May Be Found, By Elder M. Russell Ballard, General Conference, 4/2012

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Samuel the Lamanite identified five basic elements in becoming converted unto the Lord: (1) believing in the teachings and prophecies of the holy prophets as they are recorded in the scriptures, (2) exercising faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, (3) repenting, (4) experiencing a mighty change of heart, and (5) becoming “firm and steadfast in the faith” (see Helaman 15:7–8). This is the pattern that leads to conversion.

Converted unto the Lord, By Elder David A. Bednar, General Conference, 10/2012

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Now that you are here on earth, it might be wise to ask yourself how your journey is going. Are you on the right course? Are you becoming the person you were designed to be and wanted to become? Are you making choices that will help you to return to your Father in Heaven? He didn’t send you on this journey only to wander aimlessly on your own. He wants you to come home to Him. He has given you loving parents and faithful Church leaders, along with a map that describes the terrain and identifies the dangers; the map shows you where peace and happiness can be found and will help you plot your course back home. Now, where do you find this map? • In the sacred scriptures. • In the words of prophets and apostles. • And through personal revelation from the Holy Ghost.

Your Wonderful Journey Home, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 4/2013

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Be wise in how you embrace technology. Mark important scriptures on your device and refer back to them frequently. If you young people would review a verse of scripture as often as some of you send text messages, you could soon have hundreds of passages of scripture memorized. Those passages would prove to be a powerful source of inspiration and guidance by the Holy Ghost in times of need. Doing all we can to invite the gentle, guiding influence of the Holy Ghost into our lives is critical in our attempts to center our homes on the Savior. Acting obediently on those promptings strengthens us even more.

For Peace at Home, By Elder Richard G. Scott, General Conference, 4/2013

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All are born with the Light of Christ, a guiding influence which permits each person to recognize right from wrong. What we do with that light and how we respond to those promptings to live righteously is part of the test of mortality. “For behold, the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil; wherefore, I show unto you the way to judge; for every thing which inviteth to do good, and to persuade to believe in Christ, is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ; wherefore ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of God.”8 Each of us must stay in condition to respond to inspiration and the promptings of the Holy Ghost. The Lord has a way of pouring pure intelligence into our minds to prompt us, to guide us, to teach us, and to warn us. Each son or daughter of God can know the things they need to know instantly. Learn to receive and act on inspiration and revelation.

These Things I Know, By President Boyd K. Packer, General Conference, 4/2013

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Those who rely solely on themselves and follow only their own desires and self-inclinations are so limited when compared to those who follow God and tap into His insight, power, and gifts. It has been said that someone who is all wrapped up in himself or herself makes a very small package. Strong, proactive obedience is anything but weak or passive. It is the means by which we declare our faith in God and qualify ourselves to receive the powers of heaven. Obedience is a choice. It is a choice between our own limited knowledge and power and God’s unlimited wisdom and omnipotence. According...

Obedience through Our Faithfulness, By Elder L. Tom Perry, General Conference, 4/2014

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...To succeed in life, we must teach our spirit and body to work together in obedience to God’s commandments. If we heed the gentle promptings of the Holy Ghost, it can unite our spirits and bodies in a purpose that will guide us back to our eternal home to live with our eternal Father in Heaven.

Obedience through Our Faithfulness, By Elder L. Tom Perry, General Conference, 4/2014

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Do you remember the first time you knew there was a God and could feel His love? As a boy, I used to gaze into the starry sky and ponder and feel His presence. I thrilled to explore the magnificent beauties of God’s creations—from tiny insects to towering trees. As I recognized the beauty of this earth, I knew that Heavenly Father loved me. I knew that I was a literal spiritual offspring, that we are all sons and daughters of God. How did I know this? you might ask. The scriptures teach, “To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and … to others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful.”3 From my perspective, this does not mean that some people will forever be dependent upon the testimonies of others. My own testimony grew as I learned about Heavenly Father and the Savior from the teachings and testimony of my parents, teachers, the scriptures—which I read diligently—and especially the Holy Ghost. As I exercised faith and obeyed the commandments, the Holy Ghost testified that what I was learning was true. This is how I came to know for myself.

Eternal Life—to Know Our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 10/2014

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That personal revelation of acceptance, for which we all long, does not come easily, nor does it come simply for the asking. The Lord gave this standard for the capacity to receive such witnesses from God. It is a guide for anyone seeking personal revelation, as we all must. “Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven. “The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion.”4

Continuing Revelation, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 10/2014

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We all know that human judgment and logical thinking will not be enough to get answers to the questions that matter most in life. We need revelation from God. And we will need not just one revelation in a time of stress, but we need a constantly renewed stream. We need not just one flash of light and comfort, but we need the continuing blessing of communication with God.

Continuing Revelation, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 10/2014

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The Apostle Paul taught a parallel principle regarding spiritual knowledge. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God,” he wrote to the Corinthians, “for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”12 In other words, if you want to recognize spiritual truth, you have to use the right instruments. You can’t come to an understanding of spiritual truth with instruments that are unable to detect it.

Receiving a Testimony of Light and Truth, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 10/2014

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...God cares about you. He will listen, and He will answer your personal questions. The answers to your prayers will come in His own way and in His own time, and therefore, you need to learn to listen to His voice. God wants you to find your way back to Him, and the Savior is the way.5 God wants you to learn of His Son, Jesus Christ, and experience the profound peace and joy that come from following the path of divine discipleship. My dear friends, here is a fairly straightforward experiment, with a guarantee from God, found in a book of ancient scripture available to every man, woman, and child willing to put it to the test: First, you must search the word of God. That means reading the scriptures and studying the words of the ancient as well as modern prophets regarding the restored gospel of Jesus Christ—not with an intent to doubt or criticize but with a sincere desire to discover truth. Ponder upon the things you will feel, and prepare your minds to receive the truth.6 “Even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you … that ye can give place for [the word of God].”7 Second, you must consider, ponder, fearlessly strive to believe,8 and be grateful for how merciful the Lord has been to His children from the time of Adam to our day by providing prophets, seers, and revelators to lead His Church and help us find the way back to Him. Third, you must ask your Heavenly Father, in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, to manifest the truth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints unto you. Ask with a sincere heart and with real intent, having faith in Christ.9 There is also a fourth step, given to us by the Savior: “If any man will do [God’s] will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.”10 In other words, when you are trying to verify the truth of gospel principles, you must first live them. Put gospel doctrine and Church teachings to the test in your own life. Do it with real intent and enduring faith in God. If you will do these things, you have a promise from God—who is bound by His word11—that He will manifest the truth to you by the power of the Holy Ghost. He will grant you greater light that will allow you to look through the darkness and witness unimaginably glorious vistas incomprehensible to mortal sight. Some may say that the steps are too hard or that they are not worth the effort. But I suggest that this personal testimony of the gospel and the Church is the most important thing you can earn in this life. It will not only bless and guide you during this life, but it will also have a direct bearing on your life throughout eternity.

Receiving a Testimony of Light and Truth, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 10/2014

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...the power to speak and act in God’s name requires revelation and that to have it when we need it requires praying and working in faith for the companionship of the Holy Ghost.

Priesthood and Personal Prayer, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 4/2015

 

 

The Holy Ghost

Life at times can feel extremely lonely or confusing at times. For some this feeling seems never ending and makes the experience of life hard to find joy and comfort in. I for one have felt that way in my life more often than I care to dwell on because I know there is someone out there who I can always have to be with me. The person I speak of is the Holy Ghost, the third member of the Godhead who’s influence can be with us at all times that we may never feel alone, or confused. For members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints the role of the Holy Ghost is a special one as it is for Christianity as a whole. We share a lot of commonalities we our Christian brother and sisters but the biggest difference in how we perceive the Holy Ghost however is revelation. For us revelation is a key component of our religion and through it we know that we are in constant communication with God.

I for one am extremely grateful for the role the Holy Ghost has in my life. He truly is my guide and comforter in life. Through him I am able to discern what is really important in life. I can be enlightened to the truth in life. I am able to bless others and be a better leader in my family in partnership with my wife. The only cost for this peace and assurance is what comes from being obedient to the commandments of God and learning to listen to the still, small voice.

Wisdom from the Prophets and Apostles:

...Be influenced by that still, small voice. Remember that one with authority placed his hands on your head at the time of your confirmation and said, “Receive the Holy Ghost.” Open your hearts, even your very souls, to the sound of that special voice which testifies of truth. As the prophet Isaiah promised, “Thine ears shall hear a word … saying, This is the way, walk ye in it.”

Believe, Obey, and Endure, By President Thomas S. Monson, General Conference, 4/2012

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...yielding to emotions such as anger or hurt or defensiveness will drive away the Holy Ghost. Those emotions must be eliminated, or our chance for receiving revelation is slight.

How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life, By Elder Richard G. Scott, General Conference, 4/2012

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The Holy Ghost communicates important information that we need to guide us in our mortal journey. When it is crisp and clear and essential, it warrants the title of revelation. When it is a series of promptings we often have to guide us step by step to a worthy objective, for the purpose of this message, it is inspiration.

How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life, By Elder Richard G. Scott, General Conference, 4/2012

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...The Holy Ghost testifies to our hearts that we have a loving Father in Heaven, whose merciful plan for our redemption will be fulfilled in every aspect because of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As Naomi W. Randall, author of “I Am a Child of God,” penned, “His Spirit guides; his love assures that fear departs when faith endures.”27...

In Tune with the Music of Faith, By Elder Quentin L. Cook, General Conference, 4/2012

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Throughout our lives, whether in times of darkness, challenge, sorrow, or sin, we may feel the Holy Ghost reminding us that we are truly sons and daughters of a caring Heavenly Father, who loves us, and we may hunger for the sacred blessings that only He can provide. At these times we should strive to come to ourselves and come back into the light of our Savior’s love.

Coming to Ourselves: The Sacrament, the Temple, and Sacrifice in Service, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 4/2012

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The Holy Ghost is sent to you and to those you care for. You will be strengthened and yet inspired to know the limits and extent of your ability to serve. The Spirit will comfort you when you may wonder, “Did I do enough?”

The Caregiver, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 10/2012

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...The Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit whose work is to testify of the Father and the Son. The Godhead is three separate and distinct beings, unified in purpose.

Being a More Christian Christian, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 10/2012

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To speak to a child’s heart, we must know a child’s needs. If we pray to know those needs, the very words we say may have the power to reach into their hearts. Our efforts are magnified when we seek the direction of the Holy Ghost. The Lord said: “Speak the thoughts that I shall put into your hearts, … “For it shall be given you in the very hour, yea, in the very moment, what ye shall say.”...

The Words We Speak, By Rosemary M. Wixom, General Conference, 4/2013

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...In the intimate setting of the Passover chamber, the Savior promised His Apostles that they would be blessed with the “Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost” and then uttered these important words: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.”30...

Personal Peace: The Reward of Righteousness, By Elder Quentin L. Cook, General Conference, 4/2013

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It is only with the companionship of the Holy Ghost that we can hope to be equally yoked in a marriage free from discord. I have seen how that companionship is crucial for felicity in a marriage. The miracle of becoming one requires the help of heaven, and it takes time. Our goal is to live together forever in the presence of Heavenly Father and our Savior.

To My Grandchildren, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 10/2013

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Another truth I have come to know is that the Holy Ghost is real. He is the third member of the Godhead. His mission is to testify of truth and righteousness. He manifests Himself in many ways, including feelings of peace and reassurance. He can also bring comfort, guidance, and correction when needed. The companionship of the Holy Ghost is maintained throughout our lives by righteous living. The gift of the Holy Ghost is conferred through an ordinance of the gospel. One with authority lays his hands on the head of a new member of the Church and says words such as these: “Receive the Holy Ghost.” This ordinance alone does not change us in a noticeable way, but if we listen and follow the promptings, we will receive the blessing of the Holy Ghost. Each son or daughter of our Heavenly Father can come to know the reality of Moroni’s promise: “By the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (Moroni 10:5; emphasis added).

The Witness, By President Boyd K. Packer, General Conference, 4/2014

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It is one thing to know that Jesus Christ came to the earth to die for us. But we also need to appreciate that the Lord desires, through His Atonement and by the power of the Holy Ghost, to enliven us—not only to guide but also to strengthen and heal us.

Bear Up Their Burdens with Ease, By Elder David A. Bednar, General Conference, 4/2014

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...As you seek a personal witness—your personal revelation—you will discover that Heavenly Father has provided a special way for you to know the truth for yourself: through the third member of the Godhead, a personage of spirit we know as the Holy Ghost. “And when ye shall receive these things”—including what I have shared today—“I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. “And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know [with a surety] the truth of all things.”27

Eternal Life—to Know Our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 10/2014

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I bear you my witness that is true. Heavenly Father hears your prayers. He loves you. He knows your name. Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and our Redeemer. He loves you beyond your ability to comprehend. God pours out revelation, through the Holy Ghost, on His children. He...

Continuing Revelation, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 10/2014

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From the Book of Mormon in 2 Nephi we read: “For behold, again I say unto you that if ye will enter in by the way, and receive the Holy Ghost, it will show unto you all things what ye should do” (2 Nephi 32:5). We must never let the noise of the world overpower and overwhelm that still, small voice.

Finding Lasting Peace and Building Eternal Families, By Elder L. Tom Perry, General Conference, 10/2014

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As a priesthood holder, you are to be part of the warning voice of the Lord. But you need to heed the warning yourself. You will not survive spiritually without the protection of the companionship of the Holy Ghost in your daily life. You must pray for it and work to have it. Only with that guide will you be able to find your way along the strait and narrow path through the mists of evil. The Holy Ghost will be your guide as He reveals truth when you study the words of prophets.

Priesthood and Personal Prayer, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 4/2015

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It is because you have such important and difficult priesthood calls that President Smith suggests that when you pray, you always plead with God that He will bless you with His Spirit. You will need the Holy Ghost not once but as much as God will grant it to you for your constant companion. That is why we must always pray that God will guide us in our service to His children.

Priesthood and Personal Prayer, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 4/2015

 

 

Agency

If there is one thing that bothers me above all else in terms of mis-information about members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it is hearing things such as “Mormons don't think for themselves”. Or the ever popular “Mormons are just blind followers of whatever their leaders tell them”.  One reason why it bothers me like it does is that I used to be one of those who wholeheartedly believed that the members were blindly lead sheep willing to do whatever they are told.

The problem with that is now that I've been a member for some time, I have seen anything but blind submissiveness, in fact I see a people who are more than willing to question things, but they do so in faith leading the search. Agency is actually the whole lynchpin of the Gospel. Without it there would be no need for it, for the Savior, or His Atonement. We are taught that we should seek the truth diligently, and if we doubt, we are to search prayerfully for an answer from God through the Holy Ghost. It is such an important concept to us that we believed in a war in Heaven before the world was that was over our ability to choose for ourselves. It is a big part of our doctrine, our church, religion, and our culture. We are not even close to the depictions of those that claim we  would hinder the ability for others to think and choose for themselves, and if you want proof, just STUDY (not just read) the Book of Mormon.

I am thankful for agency, that we teach and revere it so. I know that no matter what my future holds, that I will be the author of it for good or ill. I am thankful for a Father in Heaven who trusts me enough to let me go off in this world to `make my own story that isn't pre-written. We may be destined for things, but all of them are great, and we always have a choice to reject them.

Wisdom from the Prophets and Apostles:

...obedient horse which is part of a well-trained team of horses needs little more than a gentle tug from the driver to do exactly what he wants it to do. This gentle tug is equivalent to the still, small voice with which the Lord speaks to us. Out of respect for our agency, it is never a strong, forceful tug.
Obedience through Our Faithfulness, By Elder L. Tom Perry, General Conference, 4/2014

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...Men and women receive their agency as a gift from God, but their liberty and, in turn, their eternal happiness come from obedience to His laws. As Alma counseled his errant son Corianton, “Wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10).
Obedience to Law Is Liberty, By Elder L. Tom Perry, General Conference, 4/2013

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...We recognize that when God the Eternal Father presented His plan to us at the beginning of time, Satan wanted to alter the plan. He said he would redeem all mankind. Not one soul would be lost, and Satan was confident he could deliver on his proposal. But there was an unacceptable cost—the destruction of man’s agency, which was and is a gift given by God (see Moses 4:1–3). About this gift, President Harold B. Lee said, “Next to life itself, free agency is God’s greatest gift to mankind.”3 Then it was no small thing for Satan to disregard man’s agency. In fact, it became the principal issue over which the War in Heaven was fought. Victory in the War in Heaven was a victory for man’s agency.
Obedience to Law Is Liberty, By Elder L. Tom Perry, General Conference, 4/2013

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But while the Atonement is meant to help us all become more like Christ, it is not meant to make us all the same. Sometimes we confuse differences in personality with sin. We can even make the mistake of thinking that because someone is different from us, it must mean they are not pleasing to God. This line of thinking leads some to believe that the Church wants to create every member from a single mold—that each one should look, feel, think, and behave like every other. This would contradict the genius of God, who created every man different from his brother, every son different from his father. Even identical twins are not identical in their personalities and spiritual identities. It also contradicts the intent and purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ, which acknowledges and protects the moral agency—with all its far-reaching consequences—of each and every one of God’s children. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are united in our testimony of the restored gospel and our commitment to keep God’s commandments. But we are diverse in our cultural, social, and political preferences. The Church thrives when we take advantage of this diversity and encourage each other to develop and use our talents to lift and strengthen our fellow disciples.
Four Titles, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 4/2013

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As we press forward along the strait and narrow path, we build progressive spiritual strength—strength in using our agency to act for ourselves. For both young men and young women, this growth is aided as they learn doctrine and share their testimonies through the new online curriculum, Come, Follow Me. In addition, use your agency to develop yourself personally. As you discover your gifts and talents, remember that parents and mentors may assist you, but you must let the Spirit guide you. Choose and act for yourself. Be...
Stand Strong in Holy Places, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 4/2013

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...We all participated in the councils of heaven that provided for moral agency, knowing that there would be mortal pain and even unspeakable tragedy because of the abuse of agency. We understood that this could leave us angry, bewildered, defenseless, and vulnerable. But we also knew that the Savior’s Atonement would overcome and compensate for all of the unfairness of mortal life and bring us peace. Elder Marion D. Hanks had a framed statement on his wall by Ugo Betti: “To believe in God is to know that all the rules will be fair, and that there will be wonderful surprises.”21
Personal Peace: The Reward of Righteousness, By Elder Quentin L. Cook, General Conference, 4/2013

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Agency is essential to the plan of happiness. It allows for the love, sacrifice, personal growth, and experience necessary for our eternal progression. This agency also allows for all the pain and suffering we experience in mortality, even when caused by things we do not understand and the devastating evil choices of others. The very War in Heaven was waged over our moral agency and is essential to understanding the Savior’s earthly ministry.
Personal Peace: The Reward of Righteousness, By Elder Quentin L. Cook, General Conference, 4/2013

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Agency is defined in the scriptures as “moral agency,” which means that we can choose between good and evil. The adversary seeks to tempt us to misuse our moral agency. The scriptures teach us “that every man may act in doctrine and principle pertaining to futurity, according to the moral agency which I have given unto him, that every man may be accountable for his own sins in the day of judgment.”5
These Things I Know, By President Boyd K. Packer, General Conference, 4/2013

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...We cannot force God’s children to choose the way to happiness. God cannot do that because of the agency He has given us. Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son love all of God’s children no matter what they choose to do or what they become. The Savior paid the price of all sins, no matter how heinous. Even though there must be justice, the opportunity for mercy is extended which will not rob justice.
To My Grandchildren, By President Henry B. Eyring, General Conference, 10/2013

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In this Church that honors personal agency so strongly, that was restored by a young man who asked questions and sought answers, we respect those who honestly search for truth. It may break our hearts when their journey takes them away from the Church we love and the truth we have found, but we honor their right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their own conscience, just as we claim that privilege for ourselves.5
Come, Join with Us, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 10/2013

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As our understanding of obedience deepens, we recognize the essential role of agency. When Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane, He prayed three times to His Father in Heaven, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”8 God would not override the Savior’s agency, yet He mercifully sent an angel to strengthen His Beloved Son.
“If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments”, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 4/2014

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When we came to the earth, we brought with us that great gift from God—even our agency. In thousands of ways we are privileged to choose for ourselves. Here we learn from the hard taskmaster of experience. We discern between good and evil. We differentiate as to the bitter and the sweet. We learn that decisions determine destiny.
Ponder the Path of Thy Feet, By President Thomas S. Monson, General Conference, 10/2014

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As those around us make choices about how to respond to our beliefs, we must not forget that moral agency is an essential part of God’s plan for all His children. That eternal plan, presented to us in the premortal Council in Heaven, included the gift of agency.3 In that Grand Council, Lucifer, known as Satan, used his agency to oppose God’s plan. God said: “Because … Satan rebelled against me, and sought to destroy the agency of man, which I, the Lord God, had given him, … I caused that he should be cast down.”4 He continued: “And also a third part of the hosts of heaven turned he away from me because of their agency.”5 As a result, Heavenly Father’s spirit children who chose to reject His plan and follow Lucifer lost their divine destiny. Jesus Christ, using His agency, said: “Here am I, send me.”6 “Thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever.”7 Jesus, who exercised His agency to sustain Heavenly Father’s plan, was identified and appointed by the Father as our Savior, foreordained to perform the atoning sacrifice for all. Similarly, our exercise of agency to keep the commandments enables us to fully understand who we are and receive all of the blessings our Heavenly Father has—including the opportunity to have a body, to progress, to experience joy, to have a family, and to inherit eternal life.
Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 4/2015

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All of His commandments are given to make blessings available to us. Commandments are opportunities to exercise our agency and to receive blessings. Our loving Heavenly Father knows that choosing to develop a spirit of gratitude will bring us true joy and great happiness.
Grateful in Any Circumstances, By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, General Conference, 4/2014

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Using our agency to obey means choosing to “do what is right [and letting] the consequence follow.”11 It requires self-mastery and brings confidence, eternal happiness, and a sense of fulfillment to us and, by example, to those around us; and it always includes a deep personal commitment to sustain priesthood leaders and follow their teachings and counsel. “If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments”, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 4/2014

Because He respects your agency, Father in Heaven will never force you to pray to Him. But as you exercise that agency and include Him in every aspect of your daily life, your heart will begin to fill with peace, buoyant peace. That peace will focus an eternal light on your struggles. It will help you to manage those challenges from an eternal perspective.
Make the Exercise of Faith Your First Priority, By Elder Richard G. Scott, General Conference, 10/2014

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Through Adam and Eve’s partaking of the forbidden fruit, knowledge of good and evil was introduced into the world. Their choice made it possible for each of us to come to this earth to be tried and tested.1 We are blessed with agency, which is our ability to make decisions and to become accountable for those decisions. The Fall made possible in our lives feelings of both happiness and sadness. We are able to understand peace because we feel turmoil.2
Make the Exercise of Faith Your First Priority, By Elder Richard G. Scott, General Conference, 10/2014

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To those who believe anything or everything could be true, the declaration of objective, fixed, and universal truth feels like coercion—“I shouldn’t be forced to believe something is true that I don’t like.” But that does not change reality. Resenting the law of gravity won’t keep a person from falling if he steps off a cliff. The same is true for eternal law and justice. Freedom comes not from resisting it but from applying it. That is fundamental to God’s own power. If it were not for the reality of fixed and immutable truths, the gift of agency would be meaningless since we would never be able to foresee and intend the consequences of our actions. As Lehi...
Free Forever, to Act for Themselves, By Elder D. Todd Christofferson, General Conference, 10/2014

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As we walk the path of spiritual liberty in these last days, we must understand that the faithful use of our agency depends upon our having religious freedom. We already know that Satan does not want this freedom to be ours. He attempted to destroy moral agency in heaven, and now on earth he is fiercely undermining, opposing, and spreading confusion about religious freedom—what it is and why it is essential to our spiritual life and our very salvation. Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom, By Elder Robert D. Hales, General Conference, 4/2015