Wednesday, September 12, 2018

President Henry B. Eyring on the sacred importance of each day

President Henry B. Eyring (born May 31, 1933) served in the Presiding Bishopric from 1985-1992, as a Seventy from 1992-1995, then was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles. He has served in the First Presidency since 2007.
"There is a danger in the word someday when what it means is 'not this day.' 'Someday I will repent.' 'Someday I will forgive him.' 'Someday I will speak to my friend about the Church.' 'Someday I will start to pay tithing.' 'Someday I will return to the temple.' 'Someday...'
"The scriptures make the danger of delay clear. It is that we may discover that we have run out of time. The God who gives us each day as a treasure will require an accounting. We will weep, and He will weep, if we have intended to repent and to serve Him in tomorrows which never came or have dreamt of yesterdays where the opportunity to act was past. This day is a precious gift of God. The thought 'Someday I will' can be a thief of the opportunities of time and the blessings of eternity."
- Henry B. Eyring, "This Day," General Conference April 2007
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

President Eyring points out the risks we take when we postpone important matters; waiting for "someday" can truly mean "never" if we wait too long. For many things, that probably doesn't matter so much, as our focus and priorities in life can change. But for some things, that is so very crucial. It's been said that the things that matter most should never be at the mercy of the things that matter less, and we too often allow that to happen.


So how do we avoid that trap? By being clear about priorities, and taking time regularly to reconsider our lives and establish what it is that truly matters. And by continuing to make those things happen, starting now, with a clear and helpful course of action! And in all things, but inviting the Spirit to help choose the priorities and commit to the paths of action.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)

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