Elder Ronald A. Rasband on identifying the things of our soul

Elder Ronald A. Rasband (born February 6, 1951) served as a Seventy beginning in 2000.  He was the senior president of the Seventy when he was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in October 2015.

"My thoughts today are centered on the words of the prophet Nephi, who kept the record of his people following Father Lehi’s death. Nephi wrote, 'And upon these I write the things of my soul.' (2 Ne 4:15) ...

"Nephi’s words raise the questions 'What things do you ponder?' 'What things really matter to you?' 'What are the things of your soul?' ...

"May I share with you some of the things of my soul? These things apply to all who seek to be true disciples of Jesus Christ. Ten would be a good, round number. Today I am giving you seven with the hope that you will complete eight, nine, and ten from your own experiences.

"First, love God the Father and Jesus Christ, our Savior....

"Second, 'Love thy neighbour.' (Matt 22:39.) ...

"Third, love yourself....

"Fourth, keep the commandments....

"Fifth, always be worthy to attend the temple....

"Sixth, be joyful and cheerful....

"Seventh, follow God’s living prophet."

- Ronald A. Rasband, "The Things of My Soul," General Conference October 2021, Saturday afternoon

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There are many phrases in the scriptures that we have heard frequently and pass over casually. Elder Rasband noticed one of them: Nephi's use of "the things of my soul." It's a beautiful phrase, referring to words, experiences, thoughts, or beliefs that are special and sacred to us. We can learn a lot about ourselves if we consider what kinds of things would fit into our personal list!

Elder Rasband suggested seven things that would be on his own list, and encouraged us to add more. That would be a wonderful exercise.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)