(HP quorum meeting – stake)

Last Sunday – Let us all pass on in the Work of the Lord

Our Relationship as Husband and Wives.

When I was given this assignment – I asked my wife for advice, she laughed and said “I can’t wait to hear what you will say about that.”

Being a High Priest group meeting – we have a number of couples that have been married more than 50 years – I don’t think there are many newly –weds. I do not claim to be the most qualified to give this talk. But, this is a topic that is one of the most important responsibilities for our salvation and exaltation. As well as for our happiness on a daily basis.

(Heard on Radio) – on way to work 10/10/2006

Marriage in Norway at the lowest levels since WWII – people aren’t getting married, and when they are married the average age of the bride is 30 years of age.

On talk show last Tuesday night – they estimated more people are living together out of wedlock than are married in the U.S.

The Family: A Proclamation to the World

We warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.

They then gave us a charge -

We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.

The Lord gave us the key-

EPHESIANS - CHAPTER 5

25 ^aHusbands, ^blove your ^cwives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

What did the Savior do for the Church?

He laid down his life for it,

He nurtured it,

He sanctified it.

He provided the means by which it might succeed.

And as it said in the scripture He loved it.

Elder Perry - Your Eternal Companion is your first priority!

He then gave us counsel on what to do -

“Begin by discussing with your eternal companion how much time you need together to strengthen your marriage, to demonstrate the love you have for each other. That is your first priority.”

“The Church is to help individuals and families come unto Christ and obtain eternal life. Eternal life is God’s greatest gift to His children, and it is obtained only through a family relationship. This relationship must start with the union between husband and wife, which is sacred to the Lord and is something not to be trifled with.”

Being a Righteous Husband and Father

President Howard W. Hunter

Keep yourselves above any domineering or unworthy behavior in the tender, intimate relationship between husband and wife. Because marriage is ordained of God, the intimate relationship between husbands and wives is good and honorable in the eyes of God. He has commanded that they be one flesh and that they multiply and replenish the earth (see Moses 2:28; Moses 3:24). You are to love your wife as Christ loved the Church and gave himself for it (see Eph. 5:25–31).

Tenderness and respect—never selfishness—must be the guiding principles in the intimate relationship between husband and wife. Each partner must be considerate and sensitive to the other’s needs and desires. Any domineering, indecent, or uncontrolled behavior in the intimate relationship between husband and wife is condemned by the Lord.

The House of the Lord

Elder Robert L. Simpson
Of the First Quorum of the Seventy

The ultimate blessings of the temple are centered in the love and devotion between husband and wife. They must set the example—they are the core. The scriptures say it best of all: “Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord” (1 Cor. 11:11). Everything in this world that is counter to a tender and loyal husband-wife relationship is a tool of the adversary. Everything that promotes and perpetuates family unity—mother, father, and children properly endowed with and motivated by the light and truth of Christ—is in harmony with the Lord’s plan for mortal man.

Safe Place for Marriages and Families

Sister Barbara B. Smith
Relief Society General President

2. A marriage made safe by both love and consecration can allow for a variety of opinions.

For a man and wife to become one there are many differences, large and small, that must be accommodated or resolved. In a marriage relationship that is secure, differences need not lead to discord. They can be openly considered until a satisfactory solution is reached because the premises are agreed upon: both the husband and wife are committed to love one another, to build the kingdom of God, and to establish an eternal family unit. All considerations are made in light of these three basic commitments—these are the “givens.” When they are held inviolate, the marriage remains intact, even though the process of resolution may involve considerable discussion.

Marriage and Family:
Our Sacred Responsibility

Elder W. Douglas Shumway
Of the Seventy

Marriage is meant to be and must be a loving, binding, harmonious relationship between a man and a woman. When a husband and a wife understand that the family is ordained of God and that marriage can be filled with promises and blessings extending into the eternities, separation and divorce would seldom be a consideration in the Latter-day Saint home. Couples would realize that the sacred ordinances and covenants made in the house of the Lord provide the means whereby they can return to the presence of God.

Marriage and Divorce

Elder David B. Haight
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

It would seem that a major underlying cause of divorce is in not understanding that marriage and families are God-given and God-ordained. If we understood the full meaning we would have less divorce and its attendant unhappiness. Couples would plan for a happy marriage relationship based on divine instruction. If couples understood from the beginning of their romance that their marriage relationship could be blessed with promises and conditions extending into the eternities, divorce would not even be a considered alternative when difficulties arise. The current philosophy—get a divorce if it doesn’t work out—handicaps a marriage from the beginning.

Nurturing Marriage

Elder Russell M. Nelson
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Marriage is both a commandment and an exalting principle of the gospel. 12 Because it is ordained of God, the intimate physical expressions of married love are sacred. Yet all too commonly, these divine gifts are desecrated. If a couple allows lewd language or pornography to corrupt their intimacy, they offend their Creator while they degrade and diminish their own divine gifts. True happiness is predicated upon personal purity. 13 Scripture commands: “Be ye clean.” 14 Marriage should ever be a covenant to lift husbands and wives to exaltation in celestial glory.

Priesthood authority has been restored so that families can be sealed eternally. So brethren, your foremost priesthood duty is to nurture your marriage—to care for, respect, honor, and love your wife. Be a blessing to her and your children.

With these doctrinal underpinnings in mind, let us consider the second step—specific actions that would strengthen a marriage. I will offer sample suggestions and invite each couple privately to ponder them and adapt them as needed to their own particular circumstances.

My suggestions use three action verbs: to appreciate, to communicate, and to contemplate.

To appreciate—to say “I love you” and “thank you”—is not difficult. But these expressions of love and appreciation do more than acknowledge a kind thought or deed. They are signs of sweet civility. As grateful partners look for the good in each other and sincerely pay compliments to one another, wives and husbands will strive to become the persons described in those compliments.

Suggestion number two—to communicate well with your spouse—is also important. Good communication includes taking time to plan together. Couples need private time to observe, to talk, and really listen to each other. They need to cooperate—helping each other as equal partners. They need to nurture their spiritual as well as physical intimacy. They should strive to elevate and motivate each other. Marital unity is sustained when goals are mutually understood. Good communication is also enhanced by prayer. To pray with specific mention of a spouse’s good deed (or need) nurtures a marriage.

My third suggestion is to contemplate. This word has deep meaning. It is the root from which the word temple comes. If couples contemplate often—with each other in the temple—sacred covenants will be better remembered and kept. Frequent participation in temple service and regular family scripture study nourish a marriage and strengthen faith within a family. Contemplation allows one to anticipate and to resonate (or be in tune) with each other and with the Lord. Contemplation will nurture both a marriage and God’s kingdom. The Master said, “Seek not the things of this world but seek ye first to build up the kingdom of God, and to establish his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” 17

Begin with sincere desire. Identify those actions needed to bless your spiritual unity and purpose.

When you as husband and wife recognize the divine design in your union—when you feel deeply that God has brought you to each other—your vision will be expanded and your understanding enhanced. Such feelings are expressed in words of a song that has long been a favorite of mine:

28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his ^awife loveth himself.

29 For no man ever yet ^ahated his own ^bflesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:

30 For we are ^amembers of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be ^aone flesh. his ^awife loveth himself.

Elder David A. Bednar

Question 1: In my own life, am I striving to become a better husband or a wife, or preparing to be a husband or a wife, by understanding and applying these basic principles?

All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and . . . has a divine nature and destiny.”³ The great plan of happiness enables the spirit sons and daughters of Heavenly Father to obtain physical bodies, to gain earthly experience, and to progress toward perfection.

Principle 1: The importance of eternal marriage can be understood only within the context of the Father’s plan of happiness.

Principle 2: Satan desires that all men and women might be miserable like unto himself.

Principle 3: The ultimate blessings of love and happiness are obtained through the covenant relationship of eternal marriage.

Husbands and wives need time together to fortify themselves and their homes against the attacks of the adversary. As we strive to magnify our callings in the Church, are we unintentionally hindering husbands and wives and mothers and fathers from fulfilling their sacred responsibilities in the home? For example, do we sometimes schedule unnecessary meetings and activities in a way that interferes with the essential relationship between a husband and a wife and their relationships with children?

We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity.

Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children.

Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.

We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God

7th Ward - Heritage

7^th Ward –the flagship ward of the Stake. Like the ward I grew up in, Logan 5th - Temple Worker - University Kids - Few Young Families

What a blessing that time was in my life.

My scout master in his 60’s – AC Hull was the 1^st Eagle Scout in the State of Idaho. The 2nd Eagle Scout was some kid named Howard W. Hunter. His scout master was some guy named Ezra Taft Benson.

Elder Uchtdorf’s mother-in-law was one of the widows living in our ward; she had a strong German accent – what a faithful and wonderful woman.

President Benson’s wife grew up in our ward and as the President of the twelve and as the prophet he and his wife would show up when possible. I remember on more than one occasion seeing the Bishop jump up and run down the aisle to greet the Prophet as he would show up unannounced.

-Original Logan wards - have a rich history and heritage.

-Making a foundation of faith and dedication that has influenced thousand to come unto Christ.

To you younger members of this ward – the counsel of President Packer is important.

“Young (people): Do not be so very foolish as to miss this association with the older (brothers and) sisters. They will bring more worth into your life than much of the activity you enjoy so much.”

In deed those that have experienced the paths of life have a clearer perspective of what is important or essential. That’s a concept that my teenagers have failed to grasp at this time of their lives.

The Prophet Joseph Smith said,

“The way to get along in any important matter is to gather unto yourselves wise men [and women], experienced and aged men [and women], to assist in council in all times of trouble.

Great example of this is in the Old Testament – Moses a prophet called of God – after he had led the children of Israel out of bondage began to counsel with those that needed it.

Exodus 18

13 ¶ And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to ^ajudge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening.

14 And when Moses’ father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?

15 And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to ^aenquire of God:

17 And Moses’ father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good.

18 Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is ^atoo heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.

19 Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee:

The Lord used his father-in-law to show the Prophet how to serve in his responsibilities. He show Moses the Lords way of taking care of his people. He had experience!

The Apostle Paul – counseled the aged – Titus 2: 4-7

4 That they (the aged) may teach the young ^awomen to be sober, to ^blove their husbands, to love their children,

5 To be discreet, ^achaste, ^bkeepers at ^chome, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

6 Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.

7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, ^agravity, ^bsincerity,

What better groups to teach or set an example than those that have experienced the ups and downs of life?

Occasionally the older generation believes that their time of service is spent and they aren’t as useful in the service of God. But Paul’s counsel states otherwise, your teaching and examples are wonderful opportunities to testify, edify and instruct the rising generations.

Elder Packer gave a talk a few years ago that he entitled the Golden Years – he stated:

“Have you ever wondered why the Lord organized the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles so that the senior leadership of the Church will always be older men? This pattern of seniority values wisdom and experience over youth and physical vigor.

The average age of the Presidency and the Twelve at the present time is 77 years old. We are not very nimble. We may be past our prime. Nevertheless, the Lord ordered it to be this way.

A conference or two ago, Joseph Wirthlin said he was going to challenge the members of the Twelve to a race. I thought once, “Well, I’ll accept the challenge.” Then I thought it would be safer to race against 96-year-old Brother David Haight. I thought that over and decided that David might trip me with his cane, and I would lose the race. So I gave it up!”

Since that quote Elder Haight has passed away and a couple of younger Apostles have been called – but the concept is the same, the Lord values wisdom and experience.

With age also comes a number of challenges, these cause some of our faithful saints to be home bound or unable to serve in curtain capacities. That does not change their wisdom and experience – and even though their activity at church has changed, their activity in the gospel and the strength of their testimony has not.

Our opportunity and challenge is to seek them out and let them know that their worth and examples haven’t diminished. No matter what age we are the purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ is to bring all mankind unto Christ. There is no age requirement on receiving a manifestation from the Holy Ghost that God lives and Jesus is the Christ.

Elder Packer cont…

Bishop: Do you realize that some problems you worry about so much with the youth, and with others, could be solved if they would stay close to their fathers and mothers and to their grandparents, to the older folks?

All of the attention given to our youth, all of the programs, all we do for them, will be incomplete unless we teach them the purpose of the Restoration. The keys of the priesthood were restored and the sealing authority revealed and temples built to tie the generations together. From ancient times through all the revelations runs that eternal, golden thread, “Turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers” (Mal. 4:6).

That scripture is used with temple and genealogy work as well. But those hearts should be turned to our fathers, mothers and grandparent for the rich heritage of the gospel and the freedoms we have in this great country.

One my greatest hero’s is my father – many of you older members would know him as the Judge! He was a judge here in Logan for more than thirty years. (life story)

Nothing was more important to his than his family – 10 kids and 60 grandchildren.

I have a strong heritage of Love and an example of service. He always had and fulfilled his responsibility in the kingdom of God. (ham on the run)

It wasn’t because I was faster than him that I was asked to go!

Exodus 20:12

Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee”

To honour our parents or those that have made sacrifices in our behalf, helps us to remain humble and thankful for our blessing.

In this building there is a young married ward that is associated with the married University Stakes. It would be inappropriate, but I would love to talk in their sacrament meeting and tell them what a great opportunity their missing by not associating with their senior neighbors.

Brothers and sisters, one year ago this month my mother pasted away. She had been a widow for more than ten years. A few days before her passing, I had the opportunity to sit in her living room with her, just the two of us. We laughed and talked about Dad. We expressed our loves for each other. That exchange means so much to me. If I had known that it would be the last time I was to see her, the only thing I would have done different would have been to extend it longer.

At her passing no flags flew at half-mask, the Governor didn’t declare it a holiday. But more than 100 direct descendants sat in a chapel honoring her wisdom and testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ.

In thinking about her life, I love a quote given by Elder Eyring-

Your service may not be in what the world would recognize as a lofty calling. When the real value of service become clear in the judgment of God. Some people who worked in quiet anonymity will be the real hero’s. Many of them, perhaps most of them will be the underpaid, under recognized people, who nurtured others.”

In the end – what calling we have had in the church, what honors we have achieved in the world, how much wealth we have accumulated will make no difference? The only thing that will matter is our relationship and testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ, and our relationship with our families and those whom we have come in contact with. Are we one of those that nurtured others.

Like I said the 7^th Ward – has a rich and wonderful heritage. But there are many of its members that aren’t here. Some because of inactivity, others are unable to get out. The scriptures say that pure ^areligion, undefiled before God and the Father is this, To ^bvisit the ^cfatherless and ^dwidows in their affliction, and to keep ourselves ^funspotted from ^gthe ^hworld.

This is what the gospel of Jesus Christ is all about – it’s not social events or youth conferences, these are fun, but it’s the unselfish service and dedication we give to those that are in need – to be a friend to the friendless, and example for those that need direction.

At the judgment bar of Christ which side will we be on –

Matt 25: 34-40 (-46)

Then shall the King say unto them on his ^aright hand, Come, ye ^bblessed of my Father, ^cinherit the ^dkingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

For I was an ^ahungred, and ye ^bgave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a ^cstranger, and ye took me in:

Naked and ye clothed me: I was sick and ye ^avisited me: I was in ^bprison, and ye came unto me.

Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

Or when saw we thee ^asick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have ^adone it unto one of the ^bleast of these my ^cbrethren, ye have done it unto me.

-Then shall he say also unto them on the ^aleft hand, ^bDepart from me, ye ^ccursed, into everlasting ^dfire, ^eprepared for the devil and his angels:

For I was an ^ahungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:

I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.

Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?

Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the ^aleast of these, ye did it not to me.

And these shall go away into ^aeverlasting ^bpunishment: but the ^crighteous into life ^eeternal.

CS 2nd Happiness - purpose of church

( 2ns ward)Apologize – supposed to speak last week – conflicts – made someone speak sooner, which could have brought added stress, I’m sure their better today.

All of us have busy lives – work- family and activities seen to take there toll. For almost twenty years one of my hobbies has been that of coaching athletic teams – most of the time for my kids and their friends. The majority of that time has been spent in football, basketball and soccer. I never played soccer so most of my knowledge has been learned through clinics or as a spectator. But, I also know my limitations –I will coach them through third or fourth grade, but then they need to play on a team with a coach that really knows what they are doing.

This spring was the most enjoyable soccer season I have ever coached. In recreational soccer you don’t get to choose your players – or at least your not suppose to be able too.

Some over zealous parents try to have a number of assistants or claim they have the same babysitter so they can have the kids that they know are good players on their team.

My team, was by far the worse team I have ever been assigned. I started the season like any other – we had practices and tried to teach the proper techniques, which would allow a team to be successful. It was disastrous – we didn’t even score the first three games. Sometime during those first few weeks – I came to a conclusion, we were not going to win a game and I needed to do something to make this fun for these seven and eight year old girls – most of which had never played soccer. Because the games won’t be fun the practices needed to be.

The drills and technique sessions were replaced with dodge-ball, tag and a game similar to lightning or speed in basketball was put into place. All of these were done with their feet and needed to be done as a team. Practices became fun and went by really fast – each one ended with a short talk that was accompanied by picking grass and a grass fight. But the ends result was far different than I expected. About halfway through the season we barely lost our game and scored three goals. Then we went on to win four of our last five games, two of which were against teams that had beaten us by more than five goals at the first of the season, and one against the only undefeated team in the league. None of my experience or teaching would have recommended the approach that was taken. The key was that we decided to remember the purpose, or why we were doing it in the first place – for the girls to have fun.

The first Presidency has told us that the purpose of the church “Is to bring all unto Christ.”

Everything that we do in the church and in our families should be designed to bring us closer to the Savior Jesus Christ. At the close of Church today – each of us should ask ourselves what difference has our time here today made in our lives. Has this been a social event – an opportunity to spend time with good people, or did we in reality come closer to the Savior and increase our desire to “Come unto Him” – no matter what the cost or difficulty it might cause.

A short time ago each of us had the opportunity to partake of the sacrament in remembrance of the body and blood of the Saviors Jesus Christ. To renew our covenants and accept the Atoning sacrifice the Savior has made for each of us. This is the same as if we were baptized and become clean from all of our sins once more. But this isn’t accomplished unless we have done our part to come unto Him, repent of our sins and keep his commandments.

One of the most sacred responsibilities of the Bishopric and Stake Presidency is when we represent the Savior in giving temple recommend interviews. President Larsen has stated on many occasions that “some day the church as we know it will not exist – but the temples will – everything we do in the church should lead us to the Savior and His temples.”

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin

Worthiness interviews, especially.. Temple recommend interviews, give us another opportunity to review our progress in fulfilling the glorious stewardship our Father in Heaven has given each of us.

This is our opportunity to declare to God’s representative our worthiness and dedication to the gospel of Jesus Christ. I love it when the Lord makes promises and covenants with us. When He does, we know that he can not lie and that the only thing that stands in the way of us receiving the promised blessing is ourselves, and our living up to our side of the agreement.

In the temple we receive knowledge and blessing reserved for those that are faithful and obedient to the commandments and who put the gospel of Jesus Christ first in there lives. It’s our responsibility to prepare for such blessings.

Elder Russell M. Nelson

“In the temple we receive an endowment, which is, literally speaking, a gift. In receiving this gift, we should understand its significance and the importance of keeping sacred covenants. Each temple ordinance “is not just a ritual to go through, it is an act of solemn promising.”

The temple endowment was given by revelation. Thus, it is best understood by revelation, prayerfully sought with a sincere heart. President Brigham Young said, “Your endowment is, to receive all those ordinances in the house of the Lord, which are necessary for you, after you have departed this life, to enable you to walk back to the presence of the Father, … and gain your eternal exaltation.”

The endowment is a gift – and as was stated it’s our responsibility to understand its significance, this is done through revelation and by a continually renewing or participating in the endowment process.

Have you ever wondered why we have the sacrament on a weekly basis? Or would it be sufficient to only partake of it once a year? The words to the sacrament prayer have the answer.

It’s done - in remembrance of the body & blood of the Son. Reminds us- (that it) was shed for (us). That we - may, witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father. That we - are willing to take upon (us) the name of (the) Son, and always remember him, and keep his commandments.

It is done as a witness or an outward manifestation, a recommitting or renewing of our promises and covenants. We need to be reminded – over and over.

He recommits - that (we) may always have his Spirit to be with us.

This same process of renewal – or recommitting should be done with all of our covenants. Including baptism and our temple ordinances.

Like the soccer team – we need to remember why we are doing this all in the first place. Ultimately we all want to return to our heavenly home. But we need to look at what the desired result is here and now.

The Prophet Joseph stated,

“Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God.”

Happiness comes as a result of our obedience and our courage in always doing the will of God, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Happiness is defined by the prophet-king Benjamin as

Mosiah 2:41

“The blessed and happy state of those [that] keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual”.

Happiness is the purpose of the gospel and the purpose of the redeeming Atonement for all men. This wonderful fact is key to our recognizing the great blessings the gospel had brought into our lives.

I think that too often we get so caught up in the day to day grind that we forget to evaluate how blessed we really are. And we don’t show our thanks and gratitude to God and His eternal plan for us.

The world and Satan’s plan are designed to make it look like happiness and pleasure are centered more on personal gratification. And many people are mistakenly convinced that these pursuits are more important than obedience to the gospel.

But, in the scriptures the Lord is explicit –

Behold, I say unto you, wickedness never was happiness.

Alma 41:10

Savior himself stated -

But if it be not built upon my gospel, and is built upon the works of men, or upon the works of the devil, verily I say unto you they have joy in their works for a season, and by and by the end cometh, and they are hewn down and cast into the fire, from whence there is no return. 3 Nephi 27: 11

We must not get caught up in the thought that momentary pleasure or joy for a season is true happiness. Because by and by – we will loose the spirit and put ourselves in a position they we will not be able to withstand the temptations of the devil.

Brothers and sisters, each of us know what we can do better and what areas we need to repent of. For the majority of us, I believe it’s not as much the sins of commission but omission. Do we omit to do all the little things that we know we should? To repent of our favorite sins, to do everything possible to be worthy of and use a current recommend.

A favorite quote that I have used many times throughout the years is by Elder Neil A. Maxwell – likening sins to rocks and boulders.

He stated – That many of us have a hard time pushing the boulders or large sins from our path because we are slipping and sliding on the pebbles beneath our feet.

We need to take responsibility for our actions and put the gospel of Jesus Christ first in our lives. Then the Savior has promised to send His spirit to be with us.

This past Sunday in the New York Post – there was an article about a woman that is suing her sons little league baseball coach for failing to properly train her son in running the bases and sliding. During one of their games, her son ran to second base and slid resulting in personal injury.

In life things happen to each of us that we don’t like or think are fair. And to be honest many of them aren’t fair. It’s not healthy every time that something happens to blame other or worse God.

But as stated before – Happiness comes as a result of our obedience and our courage in always doing the will of God, even in the most difficult circumstances.

To be truly converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ – requires action. It requires and willing heart – to do the will of the Father.

President Harold B. Lee said,

“Conversion must mean more than just being a ‘card carrying’ member of the church with a tithing receipt … [or] a temple recommend.” One who is converted “strive[s] continually to improve inward weaknesses and not merely the outward appearances”. I invite you to have a personal interview with yourself in which you ask how effective you are in your (conversion process).

The greatest advantage of doing what is right is that it will lead us unto Christ and to the temple, the most beautiful and sacred of all the places on this earth. As we work on these goals, they will develop skills and attributes that will lead us to the temple and prepare us for a lifetime of service to their families and the Lord.

In the dedication prayer of the Kirkland Temple – it tells what blessing can come to those that worship there-

D&C: 109: 22-23

And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them;

And from this place they may bear exceedingly great and glorious tidings, in truth, unto the ends of the earth, that they may know that this is thy work, and that thou hast put forth thy hand, to fulfil that which thou hast spoken by the mouths of the prophets, concerning the last days.

I don’t know why any of us wouldn’t want to be armed with power and glory – to have the angels of God to have charge over us. To go force with His spirit to testify of this great work.

I testify that God – lives, Jesus is the Christ.

Testimony

Saturday Night Conf. Prepare minds to be faithful

Good evening brothers and sisters – the evening session of stake conference has always been one of my favorite.

Our theme for this conference comes from the book of Alma and from the action of the great Captain Moroni, and how he had been preparing the minds of the people to be faithful unto the Lord their God. The setting for this part of the Book of Mormon is one of war and contention – fraud and deceit – and the Nephites fighting for their freedom and liberties. I’m sure it was a difficult time for all involved.

The setting for our day also that of a time of war – perhaps not in our backyards as was happening to the Nephites – it is times where deceit and fraud are common place. There is anxiety and circumstances of fear and concern. As humans beings we seem to be emotional by nature and as the media and those around us seem to panic many begin to lose hope, and know not where to turn for peace. It has been a difficult time for many of us as well.

During this time of confusion we need to continue to prepare ourselves and our families for what ever circumstances may arise. We should continue to get our food storage, pay our debts and obligations and to put our homes in order. This should be done with prudence and not to the extent of going overboard, or going into debt or panicking. The Lord has always told us he will take care of His people, for 40 years the children of Israel wondered in the wilderness with no food storage – on more than one occasion the Savior fed thousand with a couple of loaves of bread and a few fishes. Why wound we think he wouldn’t continue to bless his people now.

Brothers and sisters, in each of our lives the Lord can and will give us direction and security. A few weeks ago I was going through one of these bouts of despair, discouragement and fear. I’ve had many opportunities in my life to receive revelation, direction and the comforting influence of the Holy Ghost. For me this does not come in the form of a vision, a voice or the appearance of some heavenly being. But it comes in a comforting feeling that all will be well or in the remembrance of the words of God through the scriptures or by the words of living prophets. During one of these anxiety filled restless nights – after much prayer, I awoke with the recollection of a quote that I have read and used many times. It was so familiar to my recollection at this moment of waking that I recited it in my mind over and over – then it was followed by the sweetest felling of comfort and peace, that I know this message was specifically in answer to my prayers at this time.

It was as if the Lord had added my name to the beginning of this phase – Paul. “Life can be wholesome, with inner peace and solid hope, as you live the law, keep the commandments, and humble yourself before our Father.” This wasn’t as large an event as happened to the Prophet Joseph Smith when he read James 1:5. It didn’t result in a vision from heavenly messengers. But in its own way the feeling was similar.

Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to (my) heart.. than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again, knowing that if any person needed (inner peace and solid hope) from God, I did; for how to act I did not know, and unless I could get (some relief I didn’t know how I would be able to continue to go forward).

Brothers and sisters – its not my intent to make light of the miraculous event that took place for the Prophet Joseph Smith – but we should understand that there is no scriptures or manifestations of the spirit that isn’t also our right to experience as righteous followers of Christ.

I had used this quote so many times that I knew exactly what I should be doing and it brought me the comfort I needed.

I too have had times in my life that like the Prophet Joseph Smith –I have cried in my prayers “O God where art thou.” Or like the doubting father asking for a blessing for their child in the New Testament and “said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

These scriptures and phases have been given to us for our edification, direction and hope. As we draw near to the Savior and live in accordance to the formula of revelation – not only do the scriptures become alive in our hearts and minds, but personal revelation and Christ like attributes become part of our being – part of who or what we are. We then can turn ourselves over to the Savior and the assurance that he will make more out of our lives than we could ourselves.

Elder Marvin J. Ashton many years ago told a story of a father traveling with his young bind daughter. While in a crowed compartment in a train, a friend seated nearby asked the father if they could help – they reached over and took the little girl onto their lap.

A few moments later the father said to her, “Do you know who is holding you?”

"No,” she replied, “but you do.”

“She knew she was safe because she knew her father knew who was holding her. She was at peace because she knew and trusted her father.”

“We plead for peace in our prayers and thoughts. Where is peace? Can we ever enjoy this great gift while wars, rumors of wars, discord, evil, and contention swirl all around us? The answer is yes. Just as the little blind girl sat on the stranger’s lap with perfect contentment because her father knew (them), so we can learn to know our Father and find inner peace as we live his principles.”

After the death of the Savior there was some confusion of what would happen and what the Apostles should do. It is important to note that when Jesus came forth from the tomb and appeared to his disciples, his first comment was, “Peace be unto you.” Peace—not joy, not wealth, not personal accomplishments nor happiness—is one of the greatest blessings a person can receive. Our trust and our relationship with our Heavenly Father should be one similar to that of the little blind girl and her father. When sorrow, tragedy, and heartbreaks occur in our lives, wouldn’t it be comforting if when the whisperings of God say, “Do you know why this has happened to you?” we could have the peace of mind to answer “No, but you do.”

After the Savior declared peace unto His disciples – as is the case in most of our lives their circumstances didn’t improve in the eyes of the world. There continued to be persecuted and many were killed. Our trials or pain many times will continue – but our outlook, faith and willingness to accept Gods can be strengthened as a by products of inner peace that comes by the spirit and the assurance that all will be well.

Elder Ashton continued –

Certainly peace is the opposite of fear. Peace is a blessing that comes to those who trust in God. It is established through individual righteousness. True personal peace comes about through eternal vigilance and constant righteous efforts. No man can be at peace who is untrue to his better self. No man can have lasting peace who is living a lie. Peace can never come to the transgressor of the law. Commitment to God’s laws is the basis for peace. Peace is something we earn. It is not a gift. Rather, it is a possession earned by those who love God and work to achieve the blessings of peace. It is not a written document. It is something that must come from within.

As we have celebrated Christmas these past few weeks – some of our children mistakenly believe that all gifts are free. But, the gifts of the spirit are given freely to those that live by the principle predicated to those gifts. As Elder Ashton stated they are earned by those who love God and diligently work to receive them. Many of us in this room are from the generations that have been so blessed during our lives and some mistakenly believe that it is our right or privilege to have the blessings we have been given. Some mistakenly believe that blessings of wealth and privilege are signs of righteousness - while others believe that those that suffer must have done something wrong.

This thinking isn’t new - John chapter 9: 1-3

And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.

And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?

Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest.

It’s so important that we don’t judge the righteousness of other by their circumstances. That judgment belongs to God, when in reality the trials they bare may be specifically for their learning and exaltation.

We sometimes fail to understand that the everlasting peace Jesus promises is an inner peace, started with faith, straightened by testimony, fortified with love, and manifest through obedience and repentance. It is a peace of spirit that penetrates the heart and the soul. –

When we possess this inner peace, the worries of the world and everyday life became secondary to the will and purposes of God. We receive the knowledge that all will be well as concerning the things that really matter is concerned.

President Hinckley stated –

There is no peace in sin. There may be ease, popularity, fame, and even prosperity, but there is no peace. “Wickedness never was happiness.”

Elder M Russell Ballard -

One cannot be at peace if one is living a life out of harmony with revealed truth. There is no peace in being mean-spirited or contentious. There is no peace in vulgarity, or permissiveness. There is no peace in addiction to drugs, alcohol, or pornography. There is no peace in being abusive to others in any way, whether it be emotionally, physically, or sexually, for those who are abusive will remain in mental and spiritual turmoil until they come to Christ in all humility and seek forgiveness through complete repentance.

In deed when Captain Moroni was preparing the minds and hearts of His people it was so that they could receive the spirit of the Lord – that they could feel this inner peace in the midst of the violent storms that surrounded them. It is the hope that allows us to turn outward helping others in their trials rather that to wallow in our own pity.

The scriptures are full of references that talk about peace. Paul talked about the peace of God “which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Moroni talked of peace for our troubled hearts only comes to us as we follow the Light of Christ, which is “given to every man, that he may know good from evil”. The Lord talking to the Prophet Joseph Smith told how the Holy Ghost shall teach us the peaceable things of the kingdom.

Elder Ballard cont -

Peace—real peace, whole-souled to the very core of your being—comes only in and through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. When that precious truth is discovered and gospel principles are understood and applied, great peace can distill in the hearts and souls of our Heavenly Father’s children. Said the Savior through Joseph Smith, “He who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come” (D&C 59:23).

This can only come through righteousness, the closer we come to the Savior - the more we understand that He will not abandon us – that the same love that made it possible for Him to perform the atoning sacrifice will continue to do everything possible to lighten our load – give us hope, direction and the calming peace that He promised to His disciple.

What can we do -

40th Ward Staying worthy

This has been an eventful month – what’s happened in the financial markets -general conference, listening to prophets of God. This past week Ashley my daughter - went to the temple and was married – she loved the 40^th ward experience and those of you that attend here.

I would like to start my remarks by giving a quote from a man sustained as a prophet, seer and revelator.

“I assume, without elaborating, that we can all agree that we are living in a day of confusion and bewilderment. As conditions worsen, it becomes more apparent every day that we are on a collision course with disaster. I am persuaded that nothing except the guidance of the Holy Spirit can bring us through safely. I call attention to our unpleasant situation not because I want you to be discouraged, but because I want you to see and clearly recognize the predicament of the world in which we live.

Personally, I am not disheartened. I am concerned, but I do not live in terror. It has been said that the late President J. Golden Kimball once attended a stake conference session in which the speaker who preceded him occupied nearly all the time with an intense call to repentance, and that when Brother J. Golden followed him, he simply said, “Well, brothers and sisters? I suppose the best thing for all of us to do is to go home and commit suicide.”

Serious as are our times, however, I do not recommend Brother Golden’s prescribed course, because I have an unwavering confidence that if we will heed and follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the Lord can and will preserve and bring us through safely.”

What profound words for the times in which we now live.

But this quote was given in these times. It was given in Aug. of 1980 by President Marion G. Romney a member of the first Presidency at that time. I was almost 21 years old, about the same age of most of you; this was just before I came home from my mission and was ready to enter collage to get my education.

There were questions of great concern at that time as there is today. Numerous people were fretting and worrying about what the future would hold and would life as we know it come to an end in the near future.

We defiantly live in the last days – the Lord told us about our day

And in that day shall be heard of wars and rumors of wars, and the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men’s hearts shall fail them, and they shall say that Christ delayeth his coming until the end of the earth. (D&C 45: 26)

Working for a bank and in the stock market – I understand what the Lord means by “men’s hearts shall fail them.” It had defiantly been an interesting and challenging time.

My purpose today is to shed some light on your futures and even more important the present and whom and what you are!

President Ezra Taft Benson -

You, young men (and women)… have been born at this time for a sacred and glorious purpose. It is not by chance that you have been reserved to come to earth in this last dispensation of the fulness of times. Your birth at this particular time was foreordained in the eternities. You are to be the royal army of the Lord in the last days. You are “youth of the noble birthright.”

In the spiritual battles you are waging, I see you as today’s sons of Helaman. Remember well the Book of Mormon account of Helaman’s two thousand stripling warriors.

I always loved hearing about those stripling worriers – for lack of a better phrase they were studs. If you look at the Book of Mormon paintings they were also pretty buff. But more important than that - they were taught to put on the whole armor of God, to place their trust in the Lord, and to doubt not. They were extremely valiant and obedient to what ever they were asked to do.

If a prophet of God likened you to those stripling warriors, your goal should be to emulate their examples. None of them had the desire to live contrary to the teachings of Christ and had the faith that God would protect and deliver them through their difficulties.

Now your difficulties hopefully don’t include a sword or a cimeter. But in the D&C it talks about taking the shield of faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked and that God would extend his arm and support you against all the fiery darts of the adversary. (D&C 27:17, D&C 3:8)

Envision if you can what this might look like if Hollywood was to create this scene - thousand of fiery darts being flung through the air as we journey down the path of life. What is our protection – breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit? This in reality is a war for the salvation of your soul and your personal happiness. Each dart that hits you will eventually bring you down and make you unhappy if you do not take steps to repair or repent of the damage that takes place.

What are some of these darts? Pornography, immorality, lying, cheating, the number of possibilities are innumerable. Some darts are large and easy to avoid – others are small and seemingly don’t affect us or at least we try to tell ourselves that they don’t hurt. But if not taken care of, they will weaken us and affect our ability to withstand the larger or more fatal sins or transgressions –darts.

Now if this scene were in a movie it would be intense and almost seem overwhelming. Many may even become discouraged or give up. Others would press forward like the stripling warriors - determined and resolute not only to destroy evil but to protect and warn others of the impending danger.

Because it is hard and because we’re human, many of us have been deceived into believing that it’s not that important. Many have done as Elder J Golden Kimble jokingly suggested and have committed spiritual suicide. They’ve stopped reading the scriptures on a daily basis, praying for help and assistance, have left sins or transgressions unchecked or resolved. Then the greatest problem is that they become complacent in their progression or become past feeling, living without the companionship of the Holy Ghost. When is the last time you felt the constant companionship of the spirit for an extended period of time?

Many have justified their lack of dedication or repentance by questioning their testimonies of the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This makes it easier for some to explain why they aren’t doing what they are suppose to do. But no matter how small or weak our testimony may be at different times, when we follow God’s formulas of truth those embers of faith will kindle a fire within our soul, removing doubt giving us hope and direction. This is when we feel the Love of God and know our potential and destiny.

Elder M. Russell Ballard counseled -

Make sure all of our youth understand who they are. From their earliest days in Primary, our children sing “I Am a Child of God”. Help them to know what it really means to be a child of God.

Do you understand what that truly means? You are his offspring – giving you potential to become like Him.

Remind them that they are here at this particular time in the history of the world, with the fulness of the gospel at their fingertips, because they made valiant choices in the premortal existence.

You are not here by accident – you are some of the most valiant spirits to ever live. You earned the opportunity to be born under such a great time.

Our youth need to stand firm for righteousness and truth. They need the vision of the blessings that can be theirs as they demonstrate their love for Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ through their willingness to serve.

So we know that all (of us) have within (us) the Light of Christ. Our responsibility …. is to kindle that light … until the flame of testimony burns deep within (our) hearts and souls and then to encourage each (other) … to take that flame and use it to help kindle the Light of Christ in others.

Then the next part of his quote is something that I believe all of us understand, but fell to think about or understand the urgency of our dedication and commitment.

Of course, the adversary knows this and is working overtime to influence some of our youth to disregard the teachings of the Church. That is why parents, leaders, and teachers (and the youth themselves) need to counsel together and know every young man and young woman—every one. Whether they are active or not, we need to know them.

I commend each of you for being here. Listening to the words of God and partaking of the emblems of the atoning sacrifice of our Savior Jesus Christ in the sacrament are essential in kindling the flames of testimony in our hearts and souls. This burning testimony then not only allows - but motivates us to turn outward to seek those that need our assistance.

Think of the Savior’s example during His greatest time of suffering and despair. While in the Garden of Gethsemane after bleeding from every pore – he turned his attention to heal the severed ear of one of his captors.

Hanging upon the cross He counseled His disciples to take care of His Mother – then He turned to a common thief and told him that they would be together in paradise. He asked his father to forgiver them because they knew not what they were doing.

But His greatest act of love and kindness was in the atoning sacrifice it’s self. There he suffered for each of our transgressions, sins and also our sorrows, pain sicknesses and disappointments. There is nothing of discouragement we can tell Him that he doesn’t already know. Depression, physical pain, or even the slightest snubbing or discrimination was part of that Atoning Sacrifice.

Alma 7: 11-12

And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.

And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.

Simply stated – He understands! He experienced it all! He knows how you feel and what will help you.

Another fact that sheds light and hope on this act – was stated by Isaiah and later quoted by Abinadi to King Noah –

And now I say unto you, who shall declare his generation? Behold, I say unto you, that when his soul has been made an offering for sin he shall see his seed. And now what say ye? And who shall be his seed? ( Mosiah 15: 10 )

When he suffered for our sins – he saw all those that would accept that great act of love. He hopefully saw each one of us. I believe seeing those that would accept His ultimate sacrifice lifted Him in His time of need.

As God’s children and as followers of Christ – we have been promised wonderful and amazing blessings. But, if we fail to do our part – those promises and blessings could be lost. Talking to those that have received the priesthood or other promises the Lord stated -

That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man. (D& C 121: 37)

I wish to emphasize, that although we may continue to hold the office or be a member of the church, we may lose the power or promises given. Many of us seem to think that because we have been baptized or ordained, we can break a covenant and a commandment here and there, and sin in this way or that, and yet still have within us the power of God, and that the Holy Ghost will remain with us. Many even try to use the priesthood to bless others. This becomes mockery, and I believe that in such a case, we take the name of God in vain. We profane the name of His Beloved Son. We desecrate the sacred gift which comes through covenants, and the authority which we lose because of transgression.

But even in those times – the Lord extends out His love and willingness to help us come back. As hard as it may sometimes be, we have a Bishop and the assurance that the Savior will help us through the repentance process even Devine assistance..

In conference a couple of weeks ago – after talking about how the angles of God can assist us in our time of need, Elder Holland stated –

In doing so I am testifying that God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided in the challenges that we face. “[N]or will he, so long as time shall last, or the earth shall stand, or there shall be one man [or woman or child] upon the face thereof to be saved.” On occasions, global or personal, we may feel we are distanced from God, shut out from heaven, lost, alone in dark and dreary places. Often enough that distress can be of our own making, but even then the Father of us all is watching and assisting. And always there are those angels who come and go all around us, seen and unseen, known and unknown, mortal and immortal.

May we all believe more readily in, and have more gratitude for, the Lord’s promise as contained in one of President Monson’s favorite scriptures: “I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, . . . my Spirit shall be in your [heart], and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.” In the process of praying for those angels to attend us, may we all try to be a little more angelic ourselves—with a kind word, a strong arm, a declaration of faith and “the covenant wherewith [we] have covenanted.” Perhaps then we can be emissaries sent from God.

This is the right and blessing of all followers of Christ. Your future may have bumps and bruises – but you are promised if you are like the sons of Helaman and put on the whole armor of God, place your trust in the Lord, and to doubt not. Be valiant and obedient to what ever they were asked to do. If you cloth yourself with the breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit? You will be able to withstand all the fiery darts and God will not forsake any of us.