President Russell M. Nelson on our covenants with God

President Russell M. Nelson (b. Sept 9, 1924) was an internationally-renowned heart surgeon when he was called to serve as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1984. He was set apart as president of the Quorum of Twelve on July 15, 2015.

"We need to remember that a covenant is a promise. A covenant made with God should be regarded not as restrictive but as protective. Covenants with Him protect us from danger.

"This concept is not new. If our water supply is of questionable quality, for example, we filter the water. Similarly, divine covenants shield us from harm. When we choose to deny ourselves of all ungodliness (see Moro. 10:32; JST, Matt. 16:26, in Matt. 16:24, footnote a), we lose nothing of value and gain glory known only to those who obtain eternal life. Keeping a temple covenant is not constraining but enabling. It elevates us beyond limits of our own perspective and power. It is like the difference between plodding through a muddy field and soaring through the skies in a supersonic jet. Keeping a covenant with God is both protective and enabling."

- Russell M. Nelson, "Prepare for Blessings of the Temple," Ensign March 2002, p. 21
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This is a wonderful concept: covenants are not restrictive, they are protective! They can "shield us from harm" as they help us avoid the ungodliness in our world. If we can remember and ponder that concept, our covenants will be even more precious to us.

The focus of our most significant covenants is the temple:

The combination covenants provide of being both protective and enabling is truly a divine and sacred gift.z

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)