"Every accountable child of God needs to set goals, short- and long-range goals. A man who is pressing forward to accomplish worthy goals can soon put despondency under his feet, and once a goal is accomplished, others can be set up. Some will be continuing goals. Each week when we partake of the sacrament we commit ourselves to the goals of taking upon ourselves the name of Christ, of always remembering him and keeping his commandments. Of Jesus' preparation for his mission, the scripture states that he 'increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.' (Luke 2:52.) This encompasses four main areas for goals: spiritual, mental, physical, and social. 'Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be?' asked the Master, and he answered, 'Verily I say unto you, even as I am.' (3 Ne. 27:27.) Now there is a lifetime goal—to walk in his steps, to perfect ourselves in every virtue as he has done, to seek his face, and to work to make our calling and election sure....
"Let your minds be filled with the goal of being like the Lord, and you will crowd out depressing thoughts as you anxiously seek to know him and do his will. 'Let this mind be in you,' said Paul. (Philip. 2:5.) 'Look unto me in every thought,' said Jesus. (D&C 6:36.) And what will follow if we do? 'Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee.' (Isa. 26:3.)"
- Ezra Taft Benson, "Do Not Despair," Ensign, November 1974, p. 65
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President Benson suggests that we can overcome discouragement and despondency by "pressing forward to accomplish worthy goals."
He then encourages us more specifically to set goals in areas that are "spiritual, mental, physical, and social" as we strive to be more like the Savior. As we strive to "walk in his steps" and "perfect ourselves in every virtue as he has done" we will find that joy and "perfect peace" will replace discouragement.
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