Elder Quentin L. Cook on the fruits of true conversion

Elder Quentin L. Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"In our day, many have adopted the concept that there should be no consequence for sin. They support the unconditional condoning of sin without repentance. Our revealed doctrine not only refutes the idea that most people would be eternally condemned to hell and damnation but also establishes that personal repentance is a commanded prerequisite to partake of the Savior’s Atonement and inherit the celestial kingdom. I testify that Joseph Smith was truly an instrument in the Lord’s hands in bringing forth the Restoration of His gospel!

"Because of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, we understand the importance of both repentance and the 'works of righteousness' (D&C 59:23). We understand the overwhelming significance of the Savior’s Atonement and of His saving ordinances and covenants, including those performed in the temple.

"The 'works of righteousness' emanate from and are the fruits of conversion. True conversion is brought about by the conscious acceptance and commitment to follow the will of God. The banquet of consequences and blessings that flow from conversion is true and permanent peace and the personal assurance of ultimate happiness—despite the storms of this life.

"Conversion to the Savior changes a natural man into a sanctified, born again, purified person—a new creature in Christ Jesus."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Conversion to the Will of God," General Conference April 2022, Saturday afternoon

Click here to read or listen to the full discourse

So much incorrect or unclear doctrine in Christianity is clarified and corrected by the Restoration through Joseph Smith in the latter days! The interplay of grace, repentance, and obedience is a one of the most important of these.

The "works of righteousness" in our lives are a byproduct of true conversion:

As we truly commit to follow God's will, we become converted; and righteous works will follow that step. I love the description of "the banquet of consequences and blessings" - the ultimate happiness that comes only from Him, and will carry us through any storm in life.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2022)

Elder Quentin L. Cook on being a saint in a world of evil

Elder Quentin L. Cook (b. September 8, 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"The word saint in Greek denotes 'set apart, separate, [and] holy' (Encyclopedia of Mormonism, 3:1249). If we are to be Saints in our day, we need to separate ourselves from evil conduct and destructive pursuits that are prevalent in the world.

"We are bombarded with visual images of violence and immorality. Inappropriate music and pornography are increasingly tolerated. The use of drugs and alcohol is rampant. There is less emphasis on honesty and character. Individual rights are demanded, but duties, responsibilities, and obligations are neglected. There has been a coarsening of dialogue and increased exposure to that which is base and vulgar. The adversary has been relentless in his efforts to undermine the plan of happiness. If we separate ourselves from this worldly conduct, we will have the Spirit in our lives and experience the joy of being worthy Latter-day Saints.

"As Saints, we also need to avoid the worship of worldly gods. President Hinckley has expressed the desire that 'everyone might have some of the good things of life' but has cautioned, 'It is the obsession with riches that cankers and destroys' (Ensign, Mar. 1990, 4-5)....

"If we are to be worthy Saints, we should minister to others and adhere to the Savior's admonition to love God and our fellowmen.

"Separation from the evils of the world needs to be accompanied by holiness. A Saint loves the Savior and follows Him in holiness and devotion. Evidence of this kind of holiness and devotion is exemplified by consecration and sacrifice....

"Saints who respond to the Savior's message will not be led astray by distracting and destructive pursuits and will be prepared to make appropriate sacrifices."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Are You a Saint?", Ensign, Nov. 2003, pp. 95-96
Click here to read the full talk

Striving to be a "saint" in a world that is full of evil is not an easy task. Elder Cook clarifies the meaning and explains the process.

He goes on to enumerate some of the challenges we face in today's world:

• Bombardment by visual images of violence and immorality
• Increasing tolerance for inappropriate music and pornography
• Rampant use of drugs and alcohol
• Declining emphasis on honesty and character
• Sense of entitlement for personal rights, without corresponding attention to responsibilities and duties
• Coarsening of dialogue, more expression of things base and vulgar

Elder Cook believes that it is only when "we separate ourselves from this worldly conduct" that "we will have the Spirit in our lives and experience the joy of being worthy Latter-day Saints."  That is quite a challenge.

Of course, there is more involved than just avoiding evil.  There are many positive things we must do to accomplish this.

• We must worship God and not worldly gods.
• We must minister and serve, showing love for God and our fellowmen.
• We must develop lives of holiness as we show our love for the Savior by our devotion to His cause.
• We must demonstrate consecration and sacrifice

Then the promise is sure: "Saints who respond to the Savior's message will not be led astray by distracting and destructive pursuits and will be prepared to make appropriate sacrifices."

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2022)
September 8, 2015

Elder Quentin L. Cook on finding happiness and peace in life

Elder Quentin L. Cook (b. 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"People all over the world are seeking permanent happiness. The prominent magazine The Economist, in its holiday double issue, featured 'happiness' on its cover and as its lead story. In one article it noted that increased national economic success had not increased happiness. 'Happiness... has hardly changed over 50 years.... Rich countries do not get happier as they get richer.' ('Economics Discovers Its Feelings,' The Economist, 23 December 2006, p. 34.)

"Happiness has little to do with material wealth. Nor does permanent happiness come from entertainment or fun and games. Instead of being diversions from an otherwise productive life, these pursuits have become all-consuming to many people.

"The lead article on happiness in The Economist quoted Adam Smith, the father of capitalism, as questioning: 'How many people ruin themselves by laying out money on trinkets of frivolous utility?' ('Happiness (and How to Measure It),' The Economist, 13)

"Unfortunately, much of what is available today is not just frivolous but also morally reprehensible.

"Contrast this with those who [confront life] with a broken heart and a contrite spirit.

"We all face problems and challenges. The rain falls on the just and the unjust, but those who accept the gospel and live righteously have a wonderful promise in D&C 59:23: 'But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come.'

"Peace in this life does not come from merely pursuing worldly objectives. Eternal life, especially exaltation, does not come from pursuing merely worldly objectives."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Be a Missionary All Your Life," BYU Devotional, March 13, 2007
Click here to read the full talk

The eternal search for happiness!  Elder Cook reminds us, supported by evidence published in a national magazine, that "permanent happiness" is not really linked to financial prosperity, nor to pleasure-seeking in entertainment and games. He warns us that so much of what our society seeks in the quest for happiness is "not just frivolous but also morally reprehensible."

Instead, the Gospel's plan is to confront life with humility and a sense of dependence on God. That's where happiness will truly originate, and not from the pursuit of "worldly" success:

Rain falls on all of us; there will be challenges and difficulties. But there are wonderful promises for those who do "the works of righteousness" in this life!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2022)
May 20, 2016

Elder Quentin L. Cook on help for the difficult journey of life

Elder Quentin L. Cook (b. 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"This mortal life can constitute a difficult journey, but the destination is truly glorious. Christ expressed this to His disciples: 'These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world' (John 16:33, emphasis added)....

"A loving Father has provided a comprehensive and compassionate plan for His children 'that saves the living, redeems the dead, rescues the damned, and glorifies all who repent' (Orson F. Whitney, Saturday Night Thoughts, 323). Even though our journey may be fraught with tribulation, the destination is truly glorious.

"I rejoice in the great plan of salvation that is big enough for all of our Father in Heaven's children. I express gratitude beyond my ability to articulate for the Atonement of Jesus Christ."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Our Father's Plan—Big Enough for All His Children," Ensign, May 2009, pp. 34-38
Click here to read the full talk

There are times in each of our lives when we see that life becomes "a difficult journey." But we are blessed to remember that there is a glorious destination at the end of the path; God has reassured us of that fact many times, as Elder Cook notes. But He has also provided directions for negotiating the journey:

Elder Cook emphasizes that the plan of salvation is "big enough" for every one of God's children. No matter what our situation is, what challenges we face, what burdens we carry—there is direction, hope, and reassurance in God's eternal plan!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2022)
June 27, 2016

Elder Quentin L. Cook on goals, self-discipline, and humor

Elder Quentin L. Cook (b. 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"I encourage everyone, young and old, to review goals and objectives and strive to exercise greater discipline. Our daily conduct and choices should be consistent with our goals. We need to rise above rationalizations and distractions. It is especially important to make choices consistent with our covenants to serve Jesus Christ in righteousness (see D&C 76:5). We must not take our eyes off or drop that ball for any reason.

"This life is the time to prepare to meet God (see Alma 34:32). We are a happy, joyous people. We appreciate a good sense of humor and treasure unstructured time with friends and family. But we need to recognize that there is a seriousness of purpose that must undergird our approach to life and all our choices. Distractions and rationalizations that limit progress are harmful enough, but when they diminish faith in Jesus Christ and His Church, they are tragic."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Choose Wisely," Ensign, November 2014, pp. 46-49
Click here to read or listen to the full article

It's interesting to consider the relationship between goals and covenants, as suggested by Elder Cook. There is power in having goals to set targets for our long-term achievement, and to make sure we are focusing appropriately on those worthy objectives with the discipline reflected in our daily conduct and choices. But covenants are a type of goal; they also set standards for ongoing behavior and choices that help us stay on an established course.

In consideration of desires for long-term success in spiritual matters, Elder Cook suggests that there should be a balance between good humor and "seriousness of purpose" to define the focus of our lives:

I hope we never forget to be "a happy, joyous people." With the right eternal perspective, that can always be possible.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
December 29, 2016

Elder Quentin L. Cook on overcoming doubts and concerns through the Atonement

Elder Quentin L. Cook (b. 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"We recognize that some members have questions and concerns as they seek to strengthen their faith and testimonies. We should be careful not to be critical or judgmental of those with concerns—great or small. At the same time, those with concerns should do everything they can to build their own faith and testimony. Patiently and humbly studying, pondering, praying, living gospel principles, and counseling with appropriate leaders are the best ways to resolve questions or concerns.

"Some have asserted that more members are leaving the Church today and that there is more doubt and unbelief than in the past. This is simply not true. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has never been stronger. The number of members removing their names from the records of the Church has always been very small and is significantly less in recent years than in the past. The increase in demonstrably measurable areas, such as endowed members with a current temple recommend, adult full-tithe payers, and those serving missions, has been dramatic. Let me say again, the Church has never been stronger. But, 'remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God' (D&C 18:10). We reach out to everyone.

"If the grim realities you are facing at this time seem dark and heavy and almost unbearable, remember that in the soul-wrenching darkness of Gethsemane and the incomprehensible torture and pain of Calvary, the Savior accomplished the Atonement, which resolves the most terrible burdens that can occur in this life. He did it for you, and He did it for me. He did it because He loves us and because He obeys and loves His Father."

- Quentin L. Cook, "The Lord Is My Light," General Conference April 2015, pp. 62-66
Click here to read the full article

I appreciated Elder Cook's timely address. He speaks to those who might have questions or concerns as they learn about the Church and develop their testimonies. He encouraged proper inquiry and open honesty in resolving the concerns, while reassuring his listeners that the Church is strong and growing, not suffering from massive departures as some have claimed.

As he spoke of the "grim realities" being faced by members that might feel "dark and heavy," it was interesting to note that he was talking in the context of those "questions and concerns" and not the myriad other challenges we might face in mortality. Some who struggle with their testimonies feel more of the weight of that doubt than many of us realize. Yet Elder Cook presents the Atonement of Christ as the source of strength and hope in this situation too:

"He did it for you, and He did it for me. He did it because He loves us and because He obeys and loves His Father." How beautiful, how true, how glorious!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
January 22, 2016

Elder Quentin L. Cook on replacing darkness with light

Elder Quentin L. Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"Freedom and light have never been easy to attain or maintain. Since the War in Heaven, the forces of evil have used every means possible to destroy agency and extinguish light. The assault on moral principles and religious freedom has never been stronger.

"As Latter-day Saints, we need to do our best to preserve light and protect our families and communities from this assault on morality and religious freedom.

"An ever-present danger to the family is the onslaught of evil forces that seem to come from every direction. While our primary effort must be to seek light and truth, we would be wise to black out from our homes the lethal bombs that destroy spiritual development and growth.... These evil forces remove light and hope from the world. The level of decadence is accelerating. If we do not black out evil from our homes and lives, do not be surprised if devastating moral explosions shatter the peace which is the reward for righteous living. Our responsibility is to be in the world but not of the world.

"In addition, we need to greatly increase religious observance in the home. Weekly family home evening and daily family prayer and scripture study are essential. We need to introduce into our homes content that is 'virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy' (Articles of Faith 13). If we make of our homes holy places that shelter us from evil, we will be protected from the adverse consequences that the scriptures have foretold."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Let There Be Light!", General Conference October 2010
Click here to read the full talk

Elder Cook speaks of the great conflict that has been going on "since the War in Heaven," a struggle of "light and truth" against those that would "destroy agency and extinguish light." There has been a decade since this talk was given, during which decadence continues to accelerate. The thought of "devastating moral explosions" is too real and very frightening. He gives two items of counsel:

• Do all we can to "black out evil from our homes and lives" — provide appropriate defenses against the "lethal bombs that destroy spiritual development and growth"
• Enhance the positive presence of light as we "greatly increase religious observance in the home."
  
  

The invitation of this discourse, "Let there be light!", is a wonderful reminder of the critical importance we have to "make of our homes holy places that shelter us from evil."

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

July 8, 2015

Elder Quentin L. Cook on finding personal peace in a world of conflict

Elder Quentin L. Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"One of the most cherished titles of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, is 'Prince of Peace' (Isa 9:6, 2 Ne 19:6). Ultimately His kingdom will be established including peace and love. We look forward to the millennial reign of the Messiah.

"Notwithstanding this vision of the millennial reign, we know that world peace and harmony are not prevalent in our day. In my lifetime, I have never seen a greater lack of civility. We are bombarded with angry, contentious language and provocative, devastating actions that destroy peace and tranquility.

"Peace in the world is not promised or assured until the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The Savior instructed His Apostles that His earthly mission would not achieve universal peace. He taught, 'Think not that I am come to send peace on earth' (Matt 10:34). Universal peace was not part of the Savior’s initial mortal ministry. Universal peace does not exist today.

"However, personal peace can be achieved despite the anger, contention, and division that blight and corrupt our world today. It has never been more important to seek personal peace....

"While we will never retreat from efforts to achieve universal peace, we have been assured that we can have personal peace, as Christ teaches. This principle is set forth in the Doctrine and Covenants: 'But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come' (D&C 59:23)."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Personal Peace in Challenging Times," General Conference October 2021, Sunday morning

Click here to read or watch the full talk

I love the title "Prince of Peace." What a noble and honorable designation for the only true source of peace! As Elder Cook notes, there is no peace "universal" peace in the world. We live in a time of greater contention, anger, and provocation than ever. How do we confront our challenges in that kind of world? How do we avoid being consumed by those terrible, non-Christian emotions?

We must be seeking always for personal peace. The Messiah has promised us hope and help as we confront the world. If we turn to Him, follow Him, obey Him, worship Him—in other words, do "the works of righteousness"—we will be able to find that inner peace to help us through our lives.

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

Elder Quentin L. Cook on the world's way and the Savior's way

Elder Quentin L. Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"We live in a world where the latest story, the buzz, the hype, the 'new thing' is much sought after and then publicized throughout the world. Movies, television, and other media often celebrate heroic gestures, dysfunctionality, conflict, and sexuality rather than the quiet, everyday acts of sacrifice, service, and love that are so much a part of the Savior's message and example. The wild rush to find the new often tramples on what is true....

"Today there is a tendency among some of us to 'look beyond the mark' rather than to maintain a testimony of gospel basics. We do this when we substitute the philosophies of men for gospel truths, engage in gospel extremism, seek heroic gestures at the expense of daily consecration, or elevate rules over doctrine. Avoiding these behaviors will help us avoid the theological blindness and stumbling that Jacob described (Jac 4:14)....

"One of the great challenges of this life is to accept Christ for who He is: the resurrected Savior of the world, our Redeemer, our Lord and Master, our Advocate with the Father. When He is the foundation for all that we do and are, we avoid the theological blindness that results from looking beyond the mark, and we reap the glorious blessings He has promised us. 'Come unto me, ye blessed,' He tells those who follow Him; 'there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father' (Enos 1:27)."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Looking Beyond the Mark," Ensign, March 2003, pp. 40-44
Click here to read the full talk

Elder Cook warns us about paying too much attention to the world's "fads and distractions" in ways that make us lose sight of the things that should matter most. It's easy to forget the quiet life of discipleship, the "everyday acts of sacrifice, service, and love" that lie at the core of the Gospel message.

The last phrase of that excerpt was an interesting statement, summarizing the danger of getting trapped by the world's allures: "The wild rush to find the new often tramples on what is true."

The second warning is to not get caught up in "gospel extremism" or other misguided efforts, but to continue to focus on "maintain[ing] a testimony of gospel basics" and to remember "daily consecration."

This was a good summary of the challenge, and the "cure" of knowing where our focus belongs:

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

Elder Quentin L. Cook on sunflowers and following the Son

Elder Quentin L. Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"One of the remarkable characteristics of young wild sunflowers, in addition to growing in soil that is not hospitable, is how the young flower bud follows the sun across the sky. In doing so, it receives life-sustaining energy before bursting forth in its glorious yellow color.

"Like the young sunflower, when we follow the Savior of the world, the Son of God, we flourish and become glorious despite the many terrible circumstances that surround us. He truly is our light and life....

"Our protections in this life and for eternity will be in individual and family righteousness, Church ordinances, and following the Savior. This is our refuge from the storm. For those who feel they are alone, you can stand resolutely in righteousness knowing that the Atonement will protect and bless you beyond your ability to fully understand.

"We should remember the Savior, keep our covenants, and follow the Son of God as the young sunflower follows the sunshine. Following His light and example will bring us joy, happiness, and peace."

- Quentin L. Cook, "The Lord is my Light," General Conference, April 2015
Click here to read the full talk

This is not a new analogy, but it's a useful one. We need to make sure we are focused on the Son. And the more we keep turned toward Him, facing Him fully, the more light and strength we receive.

Following the sun brings growth and nourishment to the plant.  Following the Son will bring man "joy, happiness, and peace."

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
April 28, 2015

Elder Quentin L. Cook on overcoming the challenges of life

Elder Quentin L. Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"Just as the Savior's death brought sorrow, the vicissitudes of life, like death, disease, poverty, and injury, can and often will bring unhappiness. Separation from those we love invariably brings sorrow and mourning. Life is not easy, and it would be improper to diminish in any way the trials and tribulations that most experience.

"That having been said, the Resurrection and Atonement wrought by the Savior and the promise of eternal life with our loved ones are of such overwhelming significance that to not rejoice would demonstrate a lack of understanding of the Savior's gift.

"Joy comes when we have the Spirit in our lives (see Alma 22:15). When we have the Spirit, we rejoice in what the Savior has done for us.

"What do we need to do to have this kind of joy? In addition to attaining saving ordinances and following the living prophet, we need to live in accordance with certain fundamental spiritual principles, such as prayer, scripture study, righteous living, and service to others."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Rejoice!", General Conference October 1996
Click here to read the full talk

"Life is not easy" — most of us can bear testimony to that principle! The word "vicissitudes" isn't used much these days; the dictionary defines it as "a change of circumstances or fortune, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant." I wonder what a corresponding world would be that refers to changes that are welcome and pleasant— something like the "good fortunes" of life? We often feel more negative impact from the downturns than we feel positive benefit from the upturns. But regardless, we konw we will have "trials and tribulations" in this existence.

Elder Cook points out that in eternal perspective, there are things that are "of such overwhelming significance" that, if properly understood, will inevitably help rejoicing to replace any mourning or struggling with life's challenges.

In the simplest terms, "Joy comes when we have the Spirit in our lives" because it helps us understand "what the Savior has done for us." We should diligently seek that gift, and do all we can to obtain and retain it!

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

March 20, 2015

Elder Quentin L. Cook on facing the challenges of life

Elder Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"Among the most frequently asked questions of Church leaders are, Why does a just God allow bad things to happen, especially to good people? Why are those who are righteous and in the Lord’s service not immune from such tragedies? 

"While we do not know all the answers, we do know important principles that allow us to face tragedies with faith and confidence that there is a bright future planned for each of us. Some of the most important principles are: 

"First, we have a Father in Heaven, who knows and loves us personally and understands our suffering perfectly. 

"Second, His Son, Jesus Christ, is our Savior and Redeemer, whose Atonement not only provides for salvation and exaltation but also will compensate for all the unfairness of life. 

"Third, the Father's plan of happiness for His children includes not only a premortal and mortal life but also an eternal life as well, including a great and glorious reunion with those we have lost. All wrongs will be righted, and we will see with perfect clarity and faultless perspective and understanding."

- Quentin L. Cook, "The Songs They Could Not Sing," General Conference October 2011
Click here to read the full talk

There are many unpleasant things that happen in the world. There are unpleasant things that happen in our individual lives from time to time. And some of them just seem unfair, unjust, undeserved. As Elder Cook implies, there is often no explanation to justify these events; but an understanding of doctrines and principles helps us cope. With that understanding, the hope of eternity glows brightly in the hearts of true disciples.

How blessed we are to know:

• Our Father in Heaven knows us personally and loves us profoundly
• Jesus is our Redeemer and his Atonement compensates for all wrongs
• There is an eternal plan of happiness and eventually we will understand the meaning behind all challenges of our life.

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

January 29, 2015

Elder Quentin L. Cook on finding time for inspiration

Elder Quentin L. Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"We live in a noisy, contentious world, where it is possible to be viewing or listening to information, music, or even pure nonsense virtually every waking hour. If we want to have the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, we must find time to slow down, ponder, pray, and live so we are worthy to receive and act upon His promptings. We will avoid major mistakes if we heed His warnings. It is our privilege as members to receive light and knowledge from Him even to the perfect day. (See D&C 50:24.)" 

- Quentin L. Cook, "We Follow Jesus Christ," General Conference April 2010; click here to read the full article

Life in our day becomes increasingly complicated, as new distractions appear constantly. I suspect the adjectives "noisy" and "contentious" were carefully chosen to describe our world. And the distractions vary from "information" to "music" to "pure nonsense" — most of us can see examples of each of those in our own lives or those close to us!

What wise counsel this is: "slow down, ponder, pray." Turn off the distractions, at least part of the time. Look for opportunities to find blessed silence, to contemplate our blessings, to commune with God. It's hard to conceive that we would "receive light and knowledge from Him" while we're immersed in the distractions!

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

February 20, 2015

Elder Quentin L. Cook on the impact of the Holy Ghost

Elder Quentin L. Cook (born September 8, 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"Personal revelation is available to all those who humbly seek guidance from the Lord. It is as important as prophetic revelation....

"Personal revelation is based on spiritual truths received from the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is the revealer and testifier of all truth, especially that of the Savior. Without the Holy Ghost, we could not really know that Jesus is the Christ. His seminal role is to bear witness of the Father and the Son and Their titles and Their glory.

"The Holy Ghost can influence everyone in a powerful way....

"Although its impact can be incredibly powerful, it most often comes quietly as a still, small voice. The scriptures include many examples of how the Spirit influences our minds, including speaking peace to our minds, occupying our minds, enlightening our minds, and even sending a voice to our minds."

- Quentin L. Cook, "The Blessing of Continuing Revelation to Prophets and Personal Revelation to Guide Our Lives," General Conference April 2020, Sunday afternoon

Click here to read or listen to the full talk

Elder Cook testified in his message of the profound role that revelation has played in shaping the doctrine and practice of the Church since the restoration. In additional to some historical reminders, he offered insights and testimonies to some of the key recent events where more significant revelation was received to affect the direction of the Church.

However, the importance of personal revelation is equally crucial, particularly as we consider our personal spirituality and progress. And the role of the Holy Ghost is critical:

It's always interesting to ponder the various ways the Holy Ghost can teach, guide, or warn. Each of us should become familiar and comfortable with those influences in our personal lives. Those needs will continue to become more crucial in our challenging days.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2020)

Quentin L. Cook on striving for righteousness and unity

Elder Quentin L. Cook (born September 8, 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"In this dispensation, although we live in a special time, the world has not been blessed with the righteousness and unity described in 4 Nephi. Indeed, we live in a moment of particularly strong divisions. However, the millions who have accepted the gospel of Jesus Christ have committed themselves to achieving both righteousness and unity. We are all aware that we can do better, and that is our challenge in this day. We can be a force to lift and bless society as a whole. At this 200-year hinge point in our Church history, let us commit ourselves as members of the Lord’s Church to live righteously and be united as never before. President Russell M. Nelson has asked us 'to demonstrate greater civility, racial and ethnic harmony and mutual respect.' This means loving each other and God and accepting everyone as brothers and sisters and truly being a Zion people.

"With our all-inclusive doctrine, we can be an oasis of unity and celebrate diversity. Unity and diversity are not opposites. We can achieve greater unity as we foster an atmosphere of inclusion and respect for diversity."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Hearts Knit in Righteousness and Unity," General Conference October 2020, Saturday morning

Click here to read or listen to the full talk

There are examples in the world's history of remarkably unified civilizations, when whole groups of people lived in peace and perfect unity, often in spite of the world's evil or challenging circumstances surrounding them. We do not live in such a time. Elder Cook points out that our day is a time of very strong contention and division. But that does not relieve us of the obligation of trying.

We have the challenge and opportunity to do better. As disciples of Christ, we should e "a force to lift and bless." We should all consider our own efforts to both seek personal righteousness and to foster unity.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2020)

Elder Quentin L. Cook on improving the spirit in our homes

Elder Quentin L. Cook (born September 8, 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"One adjustment that will benefit almost any family is to make the internet, social media, and television a servant instead of a distraction or, even worse, a master. The war for the souls of all, but particularly children, is often in the home. As parents we need to make sure that media content is wholesome, age appropriate, and consistent with the loving atmosphere we are trying to create.

"Teaching in our homes needs to be clear and compelling but also spiritual, joyful, and full of love.

"I promise that as we focus on our love for the Savior and His Atonement, make Him the centerpiece of our efforts to gather Israel on both sides of the veil, minister to others, and individually prepare to meet God, the influence of the adversary will be diminished and the joy, delight, and peace of the gospel will magnify our homes with Christlike love."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Great Love for Our Father’s Children," General Conference April 2019
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This statement, to me, is a profound and somewhat frightening one: "The war for the souls of all, but particularly children, is often in the home." The efforts of the adversary to disrupt and confuse us happen in any location, but particularly in that setting that ought to be our haven from the world.

As Elder Cook warns, it is often through media that Satan works in our day, and we need to be constantly on guard against his efforts. Parents who have the privilege of teaching children must not shirk that duty or lose opportunities to have their instruction "be clear and compelling but also spiritual, joyful, and full of love."

We should pay attention when inspired leaders promise results for our actions; this should invite and encourage us to claim the blessings. Elder Cook suggests that our part of this arrangement is to:

• focus love on the Savior and His Atonement
• have the Savior as the center of our missionary and family history efforts
• minister faithfully to our brothers and sisters
• do all we can individually to prepare to meet God

Then the promises are:

• the adversary's influence will be diminished
• our homes will be magnified with Christlike love through the gospel's power

Those are marvelous promises!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2019)