Dieter F. Uchtdorf on diligence in times of challenge

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (1940- ) served as a Seventy from 1994-2004, when he was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve.  He has served as second counselor in the First Presidency since 2008.

"There may be times when we may feel overwhelmed, hurt, or on the edge of discouragement as we are trying so hard to be perfect members of the Church. Be assured, there is balm in Gilead. Let us listen to the prophets of our days as they help us to focus on the things that are central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children. The Lord knows us, He loves us, He wants us to succeed, and He encourages us by saying: 'And see that all... things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that [men or women] should run faster than [they have] strength.... [But] it is expedient that [they] should be diligent' (Mosiah 4:27).

"Are we diligent in living the commandments of God, without running beyond our strength? Or are we just leisurely strolling along? Are we using our time, talents, and means wisely? Are we focused on the things which matter most? Are we following the inspired counsel of the prophets?"

- Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "The Global Church Blessed by the Voice of the Prophets," Ensign, Nov. 2002, p. 10
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Sometimes we bring on ourselves the feelings of "overwhelmed, hurt, or on the edge of discouragement" by our own unrealistic expectations of attaining perfection. President Uchtdorf reminds us to "listen to the prophets of our day" to help us focus on the things that matter most in our quest for improvement. Maintaining the right perspective is a key to maintaining momentum in our progress.