President Howard W. Hunter on preserving the greatness of America

President Howard W. Hunter (1907-1995) was called to the Quorum of Twelve in 1959.  He served as Church President from June 5, 1994 to his death on March 3, 1995.

"Now is the time for America to decree that no longer shall this terrible waste of our inner strength be allowed to blight our greatness as a nation. We should silently, powerfully, and purposefully determine that no silent hammers of decay shall beat our civilization into dust.  We should, with promptness and firmness, decide that the termites of juvenile delinquency and crime shall not eat into the material and spiritual foundations of our country. To continue to permit forces of disintegration to sap our material and spiritual culture of its strength is to stand idly by and watch our civilization become one with Nineveh and Tyre.

"To save even our material prosperity, we must show more interest in moral and spiritual values. When civilizations have a decline in moral and spiritual values, material greatness begins to disintegrate.

"If we want to conserve our economic security, we must focus an increased amount of time and interest on strengthening our human values. A nation is not made great by its fruitful acres, its great forests, and its rich mineral deposits, but by the men who cultivate the farms, fell the trees, and operate the mines. That nation is greatest which produces the largest number of men dedicated to the loftiest ideals of the human race."

- Howard W. Hunter, "Education With Spirituality," BYU-Hawaii Graduation Exercises, Laie, Hawaii, 22 June 1985; see THWH p. 168

It's always interesting to read the warning and counsel offered by leaders in the past and compare to current conditions and challenges. President Hunter worried more than 35 years ago about the decline in moral and spiritual values of our country. Since then, in many ways, things are continuing to worsen. This inspired caution is more needed than ever.

The suggested solution to maintaining stability and economic security is not in national policy, political maneuvering, or exploitation of resources. Rather, it's in "strengthening our human values." This brings to mind the observation of Alexis de Tocqueville, the 19th-century French politician and historian, who said, "America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great."

What does this mean to me, as an individual? How can I influence and help my country? Only by influencing and helping myself and those close to me. If each individual in every family would strive to strengthen his own values and commitment, his work ethic, his dedication "to the loftiest ideals of the human race" — then goodness would spread and counteract the forces of decay and destruction. We must not give up!

 

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
July 5, 2015

President Thomas S. Monson on American prosperity and dependence on God

President Thomas S. Monson (1927–2018) was sustained to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1963. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency with Presidents Benson, Hunter, and Hinckley and then became Church president in 2008. He led the Church for almost a decade until his passing in January 2018.

"Too many Americans have been screaming ever louder for more and more of the things we cannot take with us and paying less and less attention to the real sources of the very happiness we seek. We have been measuring our fellowmen more by balance sheets and less by moral standards. We have developed frightening physical power and fallen into pathetic spiritual weakness. We have become so concerned over the growth of our earning capacity that we have neglected the growth of our character.

"As we view the disillusionment that engulfs countless thousands today, we are learning the hard way what an ancient prophet wrote out for us 3,000 years ago. 'He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase' (Eccl. 5:10).

"The revered Abraham Lincoln accurately described our plight. 'We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth, and power as no other nation has ever grown; but we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us. We have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken succession, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of preserving and redeeming grace, too proud to pray to God that made us.'

"Can we extricate ourselves from this frightful condition? Is there a way out? If so, what is the way? We can solve this perplexing dilemma by adopting the counsel given by Jesus to the inquiring lawyer who asked, 'Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.' (Matt. 22:36-39)

"First, then I would suggest that each American love the Lord, our God, and with our families serve Him in righteousness."

- Thomas S. Monson, "America Needs You," Conference Report, October 1964, pp. 140-142
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A young Elder Monson (age 37) shared these thoughts the year after his call to the Quorum of Twelve. While he expressed gratitude for the privilege he felt as a resident of the United States, he also recognized the troubles of the country at the time, in the aftermath of the assassination of President Kennedy, racial rioting and other tensions, increases in crime, and so on.

It's always interesting to compare the perspective of a past generation. President Monson was concerned in 1964 about confused priorities: desire for physical wealth and prominence instead of things of more lasting value. In neglecting the things that matter most, he worried: "We have developed frightening physical power and fallen into pathetic spiritual weakness." So how do we fare, 54 years later? In general, we can only believe that conditions are at least as bad today!

And President Monson shifts the focus back even earlier, a full century before his time, when Abraham Lincoln described similar issues and concerns:

The antidote suggested by President Monson is that we remember the two great commandments: love God with all our hearts, souls, and minds; and love our neighbors as we love ourselves. As we learn to turn our hearts upward to God and outward to our neighbors, the proper perspective returns and the whole nation is blessed.

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

President David O. McKay on the principles of America's founding

President David O. McKay (1873-1970) was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1906.  He served as a counselor in the First Presidency to Heber J. Grant and George Albert Smith beginning in 1945, then then as the president of the Church from 1951 to his death in 1970 at age 96.

"As we celebrate the birthday of the Declaration of Independence on July 4... let us catch the spirit of that morning and awaken appreciation for the blessings and privileges that are ours if we but remain loyal and true to the Constitution of the United States as established by our Founding Fathers....

"After the Revolutionary War was over and nine years after the Declaration of Independence was signed, the Founding Fathers met in that same Old State Hall to frame the Constitution of the United States.

"The French historian, Francois Pierre Guillaume Guizot, while visiting in the United States, asked James Russell Lowell, 'How long will the American Republic endure?' Lowell’s answer was: 'As long as the ideas of the men who founded it continue dominant.'...

"Actuated by these two fundamental and eternal principles—the free agency of the individual and faith in an overruling Providence—those 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence, those who drew up the Constitution of the United States nine years later, gave to the world a concept of government which, if applied, will strike from the arms of downtrodden humanity the shackles of tyranny, and give hope, ambition, and freedom to the teeming millions throughout the world."

- David O. McKay, “The Founding of an American Republic” pp. 249–51
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In most of our holiday celebrations, packed with family fun, community celebrations, and many personal traditions, it's easy to forget the origins of the holiday and its significance. President McKay reminds us of the significance of July 4 and the principles of independence and agency represented by that day. He quotes Lowell to point out how critical it is for us to preserve the memory of those principles today in order to help preserve the integrity of the American Republic.

The foundational principles of agency and faith were profoundly present in the founding of the United States of America, and must be preserved today. The Constitution's principles must be protected and defended in order to "give hope, ambition, and freedom to the teeming millions throughout the world."

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

President Heber J. Grant on the inspired Constitution of the United States

President Heber J. Grant (1856-1945) was ordained an apostle in 1882 when he was 25 years old.  He served as president of the Church from 1918 until his death in 1945 at age 88.  His tenure as president lasted over 26 years; only Brigham Young had a longer term (over 29 years).

"From my childhood days I have understood that we believe absolutely that the constitution of our country is an inspired instrument and that God directed those who created it and those who defended the independence of this nation. Concerning this matter it is my frequent pleasure to quote the statement by Joseph Smith, regarding the Constitution:

"'The Constitution of the United States is a glorious standard; it is founded in the wisdom of God. It is a heavenly banner; it is, to all those who are privileged with the sweets of liberty, like the cooling shades and refreshing waters of a great rock in a weary and thirsty land. It is like a great tree under whose branches men from every clime can be shielded from the burning rays of the sun.'

"And such the Constitution of the United States must be to every faithful Latter-day Saint who lives under its protection. That the Lord may help him to think straight, and to pursue a straight course regardless of personal advantage, factional interest, or political persuasion, should be the daily prayer of every Latter-day Saint. I counsel you, I urge you, I plead with you, never, so far as you have voice or influence, permit any departure from the principles of government on which this nation was founded, or any disregard of the freedoms which, by the inspiration of God our Father, were written into the Constitution of the United States."

- Heber J. Grant, "Admonition and Blessing," Conference Report, October 1944, pp. 6-13
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Our understanding of the inspired origins of the United States government have been described by a number of Church leaders. President Grant shared his thoughts in this excerpt, and quoted Joseph Smith for the foundational doctrine:

So what does that foundational idea mean to us? If we believe the Constitution is an inspired document, it should guide our thought and behavior in efforts to preserve the principles it defines—"regardless of personal advantage, factional interest, or political persuasion." It's important that we learn and understand those principles in order to be ready to defend them effectively.

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

President Gordon B. Hinckley on hope in the greatness of America

President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910-2008) was called to the Quorum of Twelve in 1961. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency from 1981-1995, then as Church President until his death in 2008.

"I should like to say a few words about America.... No land is without its beauty, no people without their virtues, and I hope that you who come from elsewhere will pardon my saying a few words concerning my own native land, America. I know that she has problems. We have heard so much of them for so long. But surely this is a good land, a choice land, a chosen land. To me it is a miracle, a creation of the Almighty....

"I was stirred in my heart by the words of our late, great President Harold B. Lee, who, speaking to a group such as this, said:

"'This nation, founded on principles laid down by men whom God raised up, will never fail.... I have faith in America. You and I must have faith in America if we understand the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ.' (Deseret News, 27 October 1973.)

"I doubt not that we shall have days of trial.... But I am certain that if we will emphasize the greater good and turn our time and talents from vituperative criticism, from constantly looking for evil, and lift our sights to what may be done to build strength and goodness in our nation, America will continue to go forward with the blessing of the Almighty and stand as an ensign of strength and peace and generosity to all the world."

- Gordon B. Hinckley, "Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled," BYU Speeches of the Year, October 29, 1974, pp. 267-68; see Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley pp. 10-11
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In his leadership of a large international organization, President Hinckley was aware and sensitive to the feelings of those who lived in other countries. But in this excerpt he expressed his love and confidence in the country of his birth and upbringing. While he acknowledged America's many problems, he maintained his faith and hope in the future: "surely this is a good land, a choice land, a chosen land."

This quote from his dear friend President Harold B. Lee is instructive:

And again, realistically acknowledging days of trial to come, President Hinckley's optimism in the country and its future focus on the responsibility of individuals to turn away from "vituperative criticism" and instead to lift our eyes in hope and goodness, helping build national strength through our personal righteousness.

Harold B. Lee on having faith in America and not pessimism

President Harold B. Lee (1899-1973) was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1941. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency from 1970-1972, then as Church president from July 1972 until his passing less than 18 months later in December 1973.

"Men may fail in this country, earthquakes may come, seas may heave beyond their bounds, there may be great drought, disaster, and hardship, but this nation, founded on principles laid down by men whom God raised up, will never fail.

"This is the cradle of humanity, where life on this earth began in the Garden of Eden. This is the place of the new Jerusalem. This is the place that the Lord said is favored above all other nations in all the world. This is the place where the Savior will come to His temple. This is the favored land in all the world. Yes, I repeat, men may fail, but this nation won't fail.

"I have faith in America; you and I must have faith in America, if we understand the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are living in a day when we must pay heed to these challenges.

"I plead with you not to preach pessimism. Preach that this is the greatest country in all the world. This is the favored land. This is the land of our forefathers. It is the nation that will stand despite whatever trials or crises it may yet have to pass through."

- Harold B. Lee, Ricks College Devotional, “Have Faith in America,” October 26, 1973; see also Ye Are the Light of the World [Deseret 1974], pp. 350-351

In recent times, there have been plenty of natural disasters in America, including hurricanes, earthquakes, droughts, flooding, temperature extremes, fires, etc. And "men may fail" reflects concerns that many share in areas of crime, politics, leadership, and social issues. But President Lee declares his conviction that in spite of any of those challenges, "this nation, founded on principles laid down by men whom God raised up, will never fail." And so he encourages hope and optimism, to have faith in our country and its divinely-appointed role, and not to be caught up in discouragement or pessimism about the future:

It's surprising how many in our day "preach pessimism" about the country's future due to concerns over leadership, upcoming elections, and political disagreements. As President Lee teaches, we need to remember that our nation "will stand despite whatever trials or crises it may yet have to pass through."

Howard W. Hunter on preserving the greatness of America

President Howard W. Hunter (1907-1995) was called to the Quorum of Twelve in 1959.  He served as Church President from June 5, 1994 to his death on March 3, 1995.

"Now is the time for America to decree that no longer shall this terrible waste of our inner strength be allowed to blight our greatness as a nation. We should silently, powerfully, and purposefully determine that no silent hammers of decay shall beat our civilization into dust.  We should, with promptness and firmness, decide that the termites of juvenile delinquency and crime shall not eat into the material and spiritual foundations of our country. To continue to permit forces of disintegration to sap our material and spiritual culture of its strength is to stand idly by and watch our civilization become one with Nineveh and Tyre.

"To save even our material prosperity, we must show more interest in moral and spiritual values. When civilizations have a decline in moral and spiritual values, material greatness begins to disintegrate.

"If we want to conserve our economic security, we must focus an increased amount of time and interest on strengthening our human values. A nation is not made great by its fruitful acres, its great forests, and its rich mineral deposits, but by the men who cultivate the farms, fell the trees, and operate the mines. That nation is greatest which produces the largest number of men dedicated to the loftiest ideals of the human race."

- Howard W. Hunter, "Education With Spirituality," BYU-Hawaii Graduation Exercises, Laie, Hawaii, 22 June 1985; see THWH p. 168

It's always interesting to read the warning and counsel offered by leaders in the past and compare to current conditions and challenges. President Hunter worried 30 years ago about the decline in moral and spiritual values of our country. Since then, in many ways, things are continuing to worsen. This inspired caution is more needed than ever.

The suggested solution to maintaining stability and economic security is not in national policy, political maneuvering, or exploitation of resources. Rather, it's in "strengthening our human values." This brings to mind the observation of Alexis de Tocqueville, the 19th-century French politician and historian, who said, "America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great."

What does this mean to me, as an individual? How can I influence and help my country? Only by influencing and helping myself and those close to me. If each individual in every family would strive to strengthen his own values and commitment, his work ethic, his dedication "to the loftiest ideals of the human race" — then goodness would spread and counteract the forces of decay and destruction. We must not give up!

Ezra Taft Benson on the responsibility to preserve America

President Ezra Taft Benson (1899-1994) was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1943, and served as the 13th President of the Church from 1985 until his death in 1994 at age 94.

"I do not believe the greatest threat to our future is from bombs or guided missiles. I do not think our civilization will die that way. I think it will die when we no longer care, when the spiritual forces that make us wish to be right and noble die in the hearts of men, when we disregard the importance of law and order.

"If American freedom is lost, if America is destroyed, if our blood-bought freedom is surrendered, it will be because of Americans. What's more, it will probably not be only the work of subversive and criminal Americans. The Benedict Arnolds will not be the only ones to forfeit our freedom....

"If America is destroyed, it may be by Americans who salute the flag, sing the national anthem, march in patriotic parades, cheer Fourth of July speakers—normally good Americans, but Americans who fail to comprehend what is required to keep our country strong and free—Americans who have been lulled away into a false security.

"Great nations are never conquered from outside unless they are rotten inside. Our greatest national problem today is erosion, not the erosion of the soil, but erosion of the national morality—erosion of traditional enforcement of law and order....

"If America is to withstand these influences and trends, there must be a renewal of the spirit of our forefathers, an appreciation of the American way of life, a strengthening of muscle and sinew and the character of the nation. America needs guts as well as guns. National character is the core of national defense."

- Ezra Taft Benson, "Americans are Destroying America," Conference Report, April 1968, pp. 49-54
Click here to read the full talk

Having had significant exposure to politics and government (including service as the US Secretary of Agriculture for 8 years under President Dwight D. Eisenhower), President Benson had a special concern and sensitivity to America's strengths and challenges. He often spoke about freedom, liberty, government, and the responsibility of citizens.

In this excerpt from a talk given almost 50 years ago, President Benson talks perceptively on forces that threaten the country today, particularly the erosion of spiritual values and respect for law; and offers the critical challenge that America needs "a renewal of the spirit of our forefathers" and increasing "national character."