President Thomas S. Monson on the race of life

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.

"Each of us is a runner in the race of life. Comforting is the fact that there are many runners. Reassuring is the knowledge that our eternal Scorekeeper is understanding. Challenging is the truth that each must run. But you and I do not run alone. That vast audience of family, friends, and leaders will cheer our courage, will applaud our determination as we rise from our stumblings and pursue our goal. The race of life is not for sprinters running on a level track. The course is marked by pitfalls and checkered with obstacles. We take confidence from the hymn:

"'Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed,
 'For I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
 'I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
 'Upheld by my righteous, ... omnipotent hand. ...

"'The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose
 'I will not, I cannot, desert to his foes;
 'That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
 'I'll never, no never, ... no never forsake!'
(Hymns, 1985, no. 85).

"Let us shed any thought of failure. Let us discard any habit that may hinder. Let us seek; let us obtain the prize prepared for all, even exaltation in the celestial kingdom of God."

- Thomas S. Monson, "The Will Within," Ensign, May 1987, p. 67
Click here to read the full talk

President Monson is the consummate cheerleader. He is always encouraging, always offering vision and aid in his messages. This is a great example. He reminds us that while we all have to run the race of life, we don't have to run alone. We have friends, family, leaders, and the Savior to aid and sustain us in the journey.

The final statement is a prime example of President Monson's personal enthusiasm for life:

"Let us shed any thought of failure. Let us discard any habit that may hinder. Let us seek; let us obtain the prize prepared for all, even exaltation in the celestial kingdom of God."

President Monson completed his probation. He invites us to continue faithful in ours!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2022)
August 21, 2015

President Henry B. Eyring on the blessings of gratitude during trials

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.

"I have felt that transformation of growing gratitude for blessings and a love of God increasing across the Church. It seems to accelerate among members of the Church in times and places where there are trials of their faith, where they have to plead to God for help to even carry on.

"The times we will pass through will have in them hard trials, as they did for the people of Alma under the cruel Amulon, who put burdens on their backs too heavy for them to bear:

"'And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.

"'And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.

"'And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.' (Mosiah 24:13–15.)

"You and I are witnesses that whenever we have kept our covenants with God, especially when it was hard, He has heard our prayers of thanks for what He has already done for us and has answered our prayer for strength to endure faithfully. And more than once He has made us cheerful as well as strong."

- Henry B. Eyring, "Gratitude on the Sabbath Day," General Conference, October 2016
Click here to read or hear the complete talk

President Eyring made an interesting observation. Gratitude increases during times when faith is tried. In the times when we "have to plead to God for help to even carry on" then we start to understand why we should be more grateful.

The example of the people of Alma under Amulon's oppression is always instructive. They didn't plead for burdens to be lifted or for the ability to overcome their oppressors. Instead, they received strength to carry burdens and to endure in faithfulness. God told them, as he will tell us, "for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage."

I especially love that closing line.  God can not only help to make us strong; He can also make us cheerful.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2022)
October 11, 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 Jeffrey R. Holland on the burdens and blessings of life

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (b. December 3, 1940) served as Church Commissioner of Education from 1976-1980, as the president of BYU from 1980-1989, as a Seventy from 1989-1994, and as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1994.

"On this upward and sometimes hazardous journey, each of us meets our share of daily challenges. If we are not careful, as we peer through the narrow lens of self-interest, we may feel that life is bringing us more than our fair share of trials—that somehow others seem to be getting off more lightly.

"But the tests of life are tailored for our own best interests, and all will face the burdens best suited to their own mortal experience. In the end we will realize that God is merciful as well as just and that all the rules are fair. We can be reassured that our challenges will be the ones we needed, and conquering them will bring blessings we could have received in no other way.

"If we constantly focus only on the stones in our mortal path, we will almost surely miss the beautiful flower or cool stream provided by the loving Father who outlined our journey. Each day can bring more joy than sorrow when our mortal and spiritual eyes are open to God's goodness. Joy in the gospel is not something that begins only in the next life. It is our privilege now, this very day. We must never allow our burdens to obscure our blessings. There will always be more blessings than burdens—even if some days it doesn't seem so. Jesus said, 'I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly' (John 10:10). Enjoy those blessings right now. They are yours and always will be."

- Jeffrey R. Holland, "What I Wish Every New Member Knew—and Every Longtime Member Remembered," Ensign, October 2006, pp. 10-16
Click here to read the full talk

This is an important warning. It's so easy, so natural for us to constantly compare our situation with what we perceive of the situations of others around us. We know quite a bit about our own "daily challenges," and at times it can seem that we are getting more than we deserve of those problems than our friends or associates. We "peer through the narrow lens of self-interest" and compare burdens; but we often misinterpret the burdens carried by others, not realizing the weight or severity of the challenges they face.

More importantly, we forget that God is in charge, and He molds the experience of life to "our own best interests." It's so important that we learn to trust in His wisdom, His personal knowledge of each of us, and His deep and unending love.

Once we begin to open our eyes and see not just the stones in the path but the beautiful vistas that accompany it, then we begin to experience the abundant life that the Savior promised.

Joy is available NOW! Life is a great blessing, and "there will always be more blessings than burdens" if we only have eyes to see.

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

President Henry B. Eyring on the power of the Comforter in our lives

President Henry B. Eyring (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.

"Many are praying to Heavenly Father for relief, for help in carrying their burdens of grief, loneliness, and fear. Heavenly Father hears those prayers and understands their needs. He and His Beloved Son, the resurrected Jesus Christ, have promised help....

"The burdens His faithful servants must carry in life are made lighter by His Atonement. The burden of sin can be taken away, but the trials of mortal life for good people can still be heavy burdens....

"We lighten the loads of others best by helping the Lord strengthen them. That is why the Lord included in our charge to comfort others the command to be His witnesses at all times and in all places....

"That is part of the great plan of happiness the Father gave us. He allowed His Son to provide, by His atoning sacrifice, the hope that comforts us no matter how hard the way home to Him may be.

"The Father and the Son send the Holy Ghost to comfort and strengthen disciples of the Master in their journey....

"I can know only partially how much He feels joy each time you, as His disciple, help Him bring a moment of peace and joy to a child of our Heavenly Father.

"I bear my witness that the Lord has asked each of us, His disciples, to help bear one another’s burdens. We have promised to do it. I bear my testimony that the Lord, through His Atonement and Resurrection, has broken the power of death. I give my witness that the living Christ sends the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, to those we are pledged to help Him comfort."

- Henry B. Eyring, "The Comforter," April 2015 General Conference, Women's Session
Click here to read the full talk

One of the beautiful phrases from the instructions Alma gave to those who in his day were desirous to follow the Gospel plan was that they should "comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places" (see Mosiah 18:9). In this tender address given to the women of the Church during the recent General Conference, President Eyring expounds upon that charge, encouraging us all to understand and act upon the invitation.

Often the best way to provide help and comfort in a time of need is to help bring awareness or remembrance of the reality and power of the Atonement to the one who needs it, truly standing as a witness of Him.

The remarkable part of President Eyring's talk to me is the suggestion that the promise of the help of the Comforter applies not just to the one who is struggling or challenged, but also to the faithful disciple who is there to help bear the burden. As we act as His agents, divine assistance will surely be with us.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
April 18, 2015

President Spencer W. Kimball on the paradox of service

President Spencer W. Kimball (1895-1985) was ordained an apostle in 1943 and served as President of the Church from 1973 to 1985.

"A striking personality and good character is achieved by practice, not merely by thinking it. Just as a pianist masters the intricacies of music through hours and weeks of practice, so mastery of life is achieved by the ceaseless practice of mechanics which make up the art of living. Daily unselfish service to others is one of the rudimentary mechanics of the successful life. 'For whosoever will save his life,' the Galilean said, 'shall lose it, and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.' (Matthew 16:25.) What a strange paradox this! And yet one needs only to analyze it to be convinced of its truth....

"Only when you lift a burden, God will lift your burden. Divine paradox this! The man who staggers and falls because his burden is too great can lighten that burden by taking on the weight of another's burden. You get by giving, but your part of giving must be given first."

- Spencer W. Kimball, "The Abundant Life," commencement at Safford, AZ, High School, 1939; see TSWK pp. 250-51

It's particularly compelling when you hear or read a sermon preached by someone who exemplifies the qualities being described. That is certainly the case when President Kimball talked about "The Abundant Life" and how it includes service, commitment, a life-long demonstration of practice, and faithful endurance. Noble character doesn't just appear; it requires effort, practice, and training — particularly "daily unselfish service":

President Kimball had much personal insight into both giving and receiving service. The paradox of gaining strength by taking on greater burdens is a key insight into how we best cope with the challenges of this life.

I love the insights, invitations, and the urging of this gentle and inspired prophet of God!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
March 3, 2015

Elder Gary E. Stevenson on the sacred privilege of being a shepherd

Elder Gary E. Stevenson (b. August 5, 1955) was called as a Seventy in 2008, then as Presiding Bishop in 2012. He was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in October 2015.

"As children of a loving Heavenly Father and as sheep in His flock, we enjoy the blessing of being individually ministered to by Jesus Christ. Simultaneously, we have a responsibility to provide ministering assistance to others around us as shepherds ourselves. We heed the words of the Lord to 'serve me and go forth in my name, and … gather together my sheep' (Mosiah 26:20).

"Who is a shepherd? Every man, woman, and child in the kingdom of God is a shepherd. No calling is required. From the moment we emerge from the waters of baptism, we are commissioned to this work. We reach out in love to others because it is what our Savior commanded us to do. Alma emphasized: 'For what shepherd … having many sheep doth not watch over them, that the wolves enter not and devour his flock? … Doth he not drive him out?' (Alma 5:59.) Whenever our neighbors are in distress temporally or spiritually, we run to their aid. We bear one another’s burdens that they may be light. We mourn with those who mourn. We comfort those who stand in need of comfort. (See Mosiah 18:8–9.) The Lord lovingly expects this of us. And the day will come when we will be held accountable for the care we take in ministering to His flock. (See Matthew 25:31–46.)"

- Gary E. Stevenson, "Shepherding Souls," General Conference October 2018
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

It's a wonderful thing to feel the power and blessing of being "individually ministered to by Jesus Christ" as one of His sheep. Our spiritual life and our temporal life are both so enriched as we are strengthened and sustained by His loving care. It's a sacred obligation to then pass on that loving kindness to those around us, as we also serve and minister as shepherds to those placed in our path:

I've always loved the way President Spencer W. Kimball taught this important point:

"God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs. Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other in the kingdom. The people of the Church need each other’s strength, support, and leadership in a community of believers as an enclave of disciples. In the Doctrine and Covenants we read about how important it is to '… succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees' (D&C 81:5)."
- Spencer W. Kimball, "Small Acts of Service," Ensign, December 1974

There is so much good we can do as we "run to [the] aid" of our neighbors. If we are willing and available, and if we are sensitive to promptings that will guide us, we will find countless opportunities to carry out this sacred duty.

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

Elder David A. Bednar on the burdens we bear that can bless our lives

Elder David A. Bednar (born June 15, 1952) was serving as the president of BYU–Idaho when he was called and sustained as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in October 2004.

"Each of us also carries a load. Our individual load is comprised of demands and opportunities, obligations and privileges, afflictions and blessings, and options and constraints. Two guiding questions can be helpful as we periodically and prayerfully assess our load: 'Is the load I am carrying producing the spiritual traction that will enable me to press forward with faith in Christ on the strait and narrow path and avoid getting stuck? Is the load I am carrying creating sufficient spiritual traction so I ultimately can return home to Heavenly Father?'

"Sometimes we mistakenly may believe that happiness is the absence of a load. But bearing a load is a necessary and essential part of the plan of happiness. Because our individual load needs to generate spiritual traction, we should be careful to not haul around in our lives so many nice but unnecessary things that we are distracted and diverted from the things that truly matter most."

- David A. Bednar, "Bear Up Their Burdens with Ease," General Conference April 2014
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

Elder Bednar began this talk with a story of a friend who got his pickup stuck in the snow, and was able to free it once he had filled the back with firewood—giving the truck a heavy load that provided traction to help it get free from its position. He then discussed the loads that we bear in life. Sometimes loads are imposed on us as we assume the roles and responsibilities of our lives, and they can include both positive and negative things; at times we choose consciously to add to the load.

Elder Bednar discusses "spiritual traction" that comes as we bear loads appropriately in our lives. Some loads add to the spiritual traction and some do not. It's important for us to assess and evaluate our loads to make sure that we are able to move forward appropriately on the path that will take us home to our Father.

I think it's pretty common to make this mistake: happiness comes when we have no load to bear. Elder Bednar corrects that thought; we must bear a load in life in order to find true happiness. But understanding our load is so very critical! We must not be "distracted and diverted" by things that matter less, those "nice but unnecessary" aspects of our lives.

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

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland on divine help in the challenges of motherhood

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (born December 3, 1940) served as Church Commissioner of Education from 1976-1980, as the president of BYU from 1980-1989, as a Seventy from 1989-1994, and as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1994.

"When you have come to the Lord in meekness and lowliness of heart and, as one mother said, 'pounded on the doors of heaven to ask for, to plead for, to demand guidance and wisdom and help for this wondrous task,' that door is thrown open to provide you the influence and the help of all eternity. Claim the promises of the Savior of the world. Ask for the healing balm of the Atonement for whatever may be troubling you or your children. Know that in faith things will be made right in spite of you, or more correctly, because of you.

"You can’t possibly do this alone, but you do have help. The Master of Heaven and Earth is there to bless you—He who resolutely goes after the lost sheep, sweeps thoroughly to find the lost coin, waits everlastingly for the return of the prodigal son. Yours is the work of salvation, and therefore you will be magnified, compensated, made more than you are and better than you have ever been as you try to make honest effort, however feeble you may sometimes feel that to be.

"Remember, remember all the days of your motherhood: 'Ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.' (2 Ne. 31:19.)

"Rely on Him. Rely on Him heavily. Rely on Him forever. And 'press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope.' (2 Ne. 31:20.) You are doing God’s work. You are doing it wonderfully well. He is blessing you and He will bless you, even—no, especially—when your days and your nights may be the most challenging. Like the woman who anonymously, meekly, perhaps even with hesitation and some embarrassment, fought her way through the crowd just to touch the hem of the Master’s garment, so Christ will say to the women who worry and wonder and sometimes weep over their responsibility as mothers, 'Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole.' (Matt. 9:22.) And it will make your children whole as well."

- Jeffrey R. Holland, "Because She Is a Mother," General Conference April 1997
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

I posted an excerpt from this talk three years ago (Jeffrey R. Holland on praise for mothers), but it is so full of insight and inspiration that I have to share another, and encourage readers to review the complete talk in anticipation of Mother's Day this week.

Part of the power of Elder Holland's address is acknowledging the difficulties and challenges faced by mothers, and the feelings of inadequacy and loneliness that sometimes creep in. He powerfully reassures them of two things: 1) they are doing "wonderfully well" in the task, far better than they sometimes understand; and 2) they have help available from Heaven to bless and sustain. This is a wonderful formula for any of us who struggle with any aspect of our mortality: "Yours is the work of salvation, and therefore you will be magnified, compensated, made more than you are and better than you have ever been as you try to make honest effort, however feeble you may sometimes feel that to be."

Truly, mothers bear some heavy burdens, and where we are in a position to help, we should do all we can to assist in bearing those burdens. But perhaps turning one another to Christ and helping all to know how to draw on His power is the most important thing we can do for each other. There is divine help available for us in powerful ways. There is peace and hope and confidence, through Him. That truth will never change.

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

President M. Russell Ballard on having the gospel deep in our hearts

President M. Russell Ballard (born October 8, 1928) was called as a Seventy in 1976, and has served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1985. He became acting president of the Twelve in January 2018.

"I'm simply suggesting that we take the next logical step in our complete conversion to the gospel of Christ by assimilating its doctrines deep within our hearts and our souls so we will act and live consistently—and with integrity—what we profess to believe.

"This integrity simplifies our lives and amplifies our sensitivities to the Spirit and to the needs of others. It brings joy into our lives and peace to our souls—the kind of joy and peace that comes to us as we repent of our sins and follow the Savior by keeping His commandments.

"How do we make this change? How do we ingrain this love of Christ into our hearts? There is one simple daily practice that can make a difference for every member of the Church, including you boys and girls, you young men and you young women, you single adults, and you fathers and mothers.

"That simple practice is: In your morning prayer each new day, ask Heavenly Father to guide you to recognize an opportunity to serve one of His precious children. Then go throughout the day with your heart full of faith and love, looking for someone to help. Stay focused, just like the honeybees focus on the flowers from which to gather nectar and pollen. If you do this, your spiritual sensitivities will be enlarged and you will discover opportunities to serve that you never before realized were possible."

- M. Russell Ballard, "Be Anxiously Engaged," General Conference, October 2012
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

The first paragraph of this excerpt sets the tone for President Ballard's message. Our goal as disciples of Christ is "complete conversion," which we achieve by having the doctrines of the gospel of Christ assimilated "deep within our hearts and our souls" in order that we act consistently according to what we believe. President Ballard encourages us to "ingrain" a deep love of Christ into our souls and lives in order to discover the fullness of joy and peace promised by the gospel.

As we strive to live the Christlike life, President Ballard offers a suggestion for a "simple daily practice" that can make all the difference in our lives:

When we are actively seeking for inspiration on living the Christlike life, wanting to serve and bless those around us as He did, we will be blessed with guidance. We will find our "spiritual sensitivities" enhanced and increased so that we are better able to make a difference in the lives of others. What a marvelous reminder!

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

Elder Ronald A. Rasband on eagerly serving one another

Elder Ronald A. Rasband (b. 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.

"If you come upon a person who is drowning, would you ask if they need help—or would it be better to just jump in and save them from the deepening waters? The offer, while well meaning and often given, 'Let me know if I can help' is really no help at all.

"We continue to learn the important value of being aware of and interested in the lives of those around us, learning not only the importance of giving help but also the overwhelming joy that comes from helping others....

"I would like to close with the words from a beloved hymn:

We are all enlisted till the conflict is o’er;
Happy are we! Happy are we!
Soldiers in the army, there’s a bright crown in store;
We shall win and wear it by and by. ('We Are All Enlisted,' Hymns, no. 250.)

"Brothers and sisters, it is my hope and prayer that we will continue to bear nobly our burdens and to reach out to those among us who are suffering and in need of being lifted and encouraged. May we each thank God for His blessings and renew our commitment to our Father in Heaven of humble service to His children."

- Ronald A. Rasband, "Special Lessons," General Conference, April 2012
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

How do we respond when someone we know or care about is in need? Elder Rasband comments on the frequent statement, "Let me know if there is anything I can do to help." He suggests that while that is a sincere and well-meaning sentiment, an even better approach is to just find some way to jump in and do something that would be valuable to the person in need:

There are always those around us who are "suffering and in need of being lifted and encouraged." We should always be aware and prayerful, seeking for ways to help and lift. And in so doing, "overwhelming joy" comes to us as a reward.

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

Elder D. Todd Christofferson on our participation in the Lord's work of redemption

Elder D. Todd Christofferson (b. January 24, 1945) was called to the Seventy in 1993, and as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2008.

"Inasmuch as we follow Christ, we seek to participate in and further His redemptive work. The greatest service we can provide to others in this life, beginning with those of our own family, is to bring them to Christ through faith and repentance so they may experience His Redemption—peace and joy now and immortality and eternal life in the world to come....

"While the most important aspects of redemption have to do with repentance and forgiveness, there is a very significant temporal aspect as well. Jesus is said to have gone about doing good (see Acts 10:38), which included healing the sick and infirm, supplying food to hungry multitudes, and teaching a more excellent way. 'The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many' (Matthew 20:28). So may we, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, go about doing good in the redemptive pattern of the Master.

"This kind of redemptive work means helping people with their problems. It means befriending the poor and the weak, alleviating suffering, righting wrongs, defending truth, strengthening the rising generation, and achieving security and happiness at home. Much of our redemptive work on earth is to help others grow and achieve their just hopes and aspirations."

- D. Todd Christofferson, "Redemption," General Conference April 2013
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

What can we do, individually, as disciples of Christ, to "further His redemptive work"? How can we best assist in that work? Elder Christofferson suggests that first and foremost, we strive to bring those around us to Christ, helping them experience redemption through faith and repentance. That experience will bring them joy now, but more importantly, "eternal life in the world to come."

But there is more. The Savior's work also includes temporal aspects as we strive to assist and encourage one another in our daily lives. We can also assist in that aspect of His work:

It's intriguing to ponder how our efforts to help those around us with temporal problems may contribute to the overall redemptive work. As we "help others grow and achieve their just hopes and aspirations" we are blessing their lives in ways that the Savior did during His earthly ministry, and so we are a part of His ongoing loving service to all of His children.

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

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland on bearing one another's burdens

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (born December 3, 1940) served as Church Commissioner of Education from 1976-1980, as the president of BYU from 1980-1989, as a Seventy from 1989-1994, and as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1994.

"To be called His people and to stand in His Church, we must be 'willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light; yea, and [be] willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things' (Mosiah 18:8–9).

"For me, bearing another’s burden is a simple but powerful definition of the Atonement of Christ. When we seek to lift the burden of another, we are 'saviors on mount Zion.' We are symbolically aligning ourselves with the Redeemer of the world and His Atonement. We are 'bind[ing] up the brokenhearted, … proclaim[ing] liberty to the captives, and … opening … the prison to them that are bound' (Isaiah 61:1). ...

"We learn very quickly that our best and most selfless services are often not adequate to comfort or encourage in the way people need. Or if we succeed once, we often can’t seem to repeat it. Nor are we superheroes at avoiding regression in those we care about. All this is why we must ultimately turn to Christ and rely on Him. (See 2 Nephi 9:21.)

"Often enough we can’t help—or at least can’t always help, or can’t sustain help, or can’t repeat it when we do sometimes succeed. But Christ can help. God the Father can help. The Holy Ghost can help, and we need to keep trying to be Their agents, helping when and where we can."

- Jeffrey R. Holland, "Bearing One Another’s Burdens," from Speaking Today on the lds.org website
Click here to read the full article

This is a wonderful article by Elder Holland that was posted on the Church website. No source for the article is mentioned, implying that it may have been written independent of any speaking assignment. A link was posted to the article from Elder Holland's Facebook page in June of this year, so perhaps it was written just for that purpose.  It deserves a wider distribution and a careful reading by all disciples of Christ.

The covenant usually associated with baptism (Mosiah 18:8-9) is all about how we treat one another and interact to support and bless those around us. Elder Holland considers that sacred mandate to "bear one another's burdens" and encourages us to be more sensitive and more serving. There are many around us bearing burdens that we can't comprehend. But as we strive to help in a spirit of true charity, we link ourselves to the Savior in a sacred way:

Elder Holland goes on to point out that our efforts will always be insufficient unless they are linked to the eternal and unending power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. We are only agents of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost as we strive to share in their work. One of the most important things we do in that work is to bring others to Them for ultimate support and blessing.

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

President Ezra Taft Benson on the fellowship of true friends

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.

"The fellowship of true friends who can hear you out, share your joys, help carry your burdens, and correctly counsel you is priceless. For one who has been in the prison of depression, the words of the Prophet Joseph Smith have special meaning when he said, 'How sweet the voice of a friend is; one token of friendship from any source whatever awakens and calls into action every sympathetic feeling' (TPJS 134).

"Ideally, your family ought to be your closest friends. Most important, we should seek to become the friend of our Father in heaven and our brother Jesus the Christ. What a boon to be in the company of those who edify you. To have friends, one should be friendly. Friendship should begin at home and then be extended to encompass the home teacher, quorum leader, bishop, and other Church teachers and leaders. To meet often with the Saints and enjoy their companionship can buoy up the heart."

- Ezra Taft Benson, "Do Not Despair," Ensign, November 1974, p. 65
Click here to read or listen to the full article

We come to appreciate the gift of "true friends" often only when we face a time of challenge or need, when that friendship is expressed in a variety of ways, such as carrying a burden or correcting a mistake. A true friend will rescue, sustain, and encourage. But a true friend also shares our joys in special ways too. They are there, willing and eager to help and bless, regardless of the time and need:

Joseph Smith knew the difference between a true friend and a pretend friend, a partial friend, an occasional friend. He saw many leave or turn against him when challenges came.

I liked President Benson's insights into the sources of our closest friends: Deity, family, church associates. Friendship in those settings is strengthened as we "meet often with the Saints and enjoy their companionship" as well as by our own attitudes at friendliness.

Henry B. Eyring on the blessings of gratitude during trials

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.

"I have felt that transformation of growing gratitude for blessings and a love of God increasing across the Church. It seems to accelerate among members of the Church in times and places where there are trials of their faith, where they have to plead to God for help to even carry on.

"The times we will pass through will have in them hard trials, as they did for the people of Alma under the cruel Amulon, who put burdens on their backs too heavy for them to bear:

"'And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.

"'And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.

"'And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.' (Mosiah 24:13–15.)

"You and I are witnesses that whenever we have kept our covenants with God, especially when it was hard, He has heard our prayers of thanks for what He has already done for us and has answered our prayer for strength to endure faithfully. And more than once He has made us cheerful as well as strong."

- Henry B. Eyring, "Gratitude on the Sabbath Day," General Conference, October 2016
Click here to read or hear the complete talk

President Eyring made an interesting observation. Gratitude increases during times when faith is tried. In the times when we "have to plead to God for help to even carry on" then we start to understand why we should be more grateful.

The example of the people of Alma under Amulon's oppression is always instructive. They didn't plead for burdens to be lifted or for the ability to overcome their oppressors. Instead, they received strength to carry burdens and to endure in faithfulness. God told them, as he will tell us, "for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage."

I especially love that closing line.  God can not only help to make us strong; He can also make us cheerful.

Thomas S. Monson on caring for one another

President Thomas S. Monson (born August 21 1927 - 89 years ago today!) 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 until becoming Church president in 2008.

"I am confident it is the intention of each member of the Church to serve and to help those in need. At baptism we covenanted to 'bear one another's burdens, that they may be light' (Mosiah 18:8). How many times has your heart been touched as you have witnessed the need of another? How often have you intended to be the one to help? And yet how often has day-to-day living interfered and you've left it for others to help, feeling that 'oh, surely someone will take care of that need.'

"We become so caught up in the busyness of our lives. Were we to step back, however, and take a good look at what we're doing, we may find that we have immersed ourselves in the 'thick of thin things.' In other words, too often we spend most of our time taking care of the things which do not really matter much at all in the grand scheme of things, neglecting those more important causes....

"My brothers and sisters, we are surrounded by those in need of our attention, our encouragement, our support, our comfort, our kindness—be they family members, friends, acquaintances, or strangers. We are the Lord's hands here upon the earth, with the mandate to serve and to lift His children. He is dependent upon each of us."

- Thomas S. Monson, "What Have I Done for Someone Today?", Ensign, Nov 2009, pp. 84-87
Click here to read the full talk

How easy it is in "the busyness of our lives" to forget "the things that matter most" as we're caught up in the "things which do not really matter much at all in the grand scheme of things." The things that seem so important and urgent in short-term perspective, often disappear in the broader long-term view.

President Monson reminds us of a principle that has been core to his life: the importance of loving one another, and showing that love through our acts of service and caring. The needs, the opportunities, are all around us!