Elder Neil L. Andersen on the Lord's help in life's challenges

Elder Neil L. Andersen (1951- ) served as a Seventy beginning in 1993, and was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2009.

"The Lord has not left us alone in our quest to return to Him. Listen to His warning words alerting us to the dangers ahead: 'Take... heed, watch and pray' (Mark 13:33). 'Beware lest ye... be deceived' (D&C 46:8). 'Be watchful and careful' (D&C 42:76). 'Beware lest ye also... fall from your own stedfastness' (2 Peter 3:17).

"No one of us is immune from the influences of the world. The Lord's counsel keeps us on guard....

"We enter the waters of baptism with joy and anticipation. The Savior beckons, 'Come unto me,' (3 Ne 9:14) and we respond, taking His name upon us. Not one of us wants this journey to be a brief flirtation with spirituality or even a notable but finite chapter. The road of discipleship is not for the spiritually faint of heart. Jesus said: 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind' (Matthew 22:37). 'Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me' (Mark 8:34).

"As we follow the Savior, without question there will be challenges that confront us. Approached with faith, these refining experiences bring a deeper conversion of the Savior's reality. Approached in a worldly way, these same experiences cloud our view and weaken our resolve."

- Neil L. Andersen, "Never Leave Him", Ensign, November 2010, p. 39
Click here to read the full talk

This is a profound and critical testimony as we deal with the struggles of mortality: "The Lord has not left us alone in our quest to return to Him." Elder Andersen reminds us that He invites us to be faithful disciples, following him with devotion, with "all thy soul." Our commitment must not be "a brief flirtation with spirituality."

But as we do turn our lives to Him, as we truly follow His teachings and example, the blessings are very real. Then when challenges come, and they still will, we will realize that His help is present and know that truly He "has not left us alone."

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2022)
December 4, 2015

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland on the blessings of General Conference

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (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.

"I think it is safe to say that the prayer all the brethren and sisters have had as they have spoken this weekend is that general conference will have been as uplifting, and if needful as life-changing for each of us... who semi-annually respond to our LDS hymn, 'Come, listen to a prophet's voice, and hear the word of God' (Hymns, no. 21).

"In my own expression of testimony and gratitude for the messages and meaning of general conference, may I suggest three things these twice-yearly gatherings declare to all the world.

"First, they declare eagerly and unequivocally that there is again a living prophet on the earth speaking in the name of the Lord. And how we need such guidance! Our times are turbulent and difficult. We see wars internationally and distress domestically. Neighbors all around us face personal heartaches and family sorrows. Legions know fear and troubles of a hundred kinds....

"Secondly, each of these conferences marks a call to action not only in our own lives but also on behalf of others around us, those who are of our own family and faith and those who are not....

"Lastly, a general conference of the Church is a declaration to all the world that Jesus is the Christ....

"To all of you who think you are lost or without hope, or who think you have done too much that was too wrong for too long, to every one of you who worry that you are stranded somewhere on the wintry plains of life and have wrecked your handcart in the process, this conference calls out Jehovah's unrelenting refrain, '[My] hand is stretched out still' (see Isaiah 5:25; 9:17, 21). 'I shall lengthen out mine arm unto them,' He said, '[and even if they] deny me; nevertheless, I will be merciful unto them, ... if they will repent and come unto me; for mine arm is lengthened out all the day long, saith the Lord God of Hosts' (2 Nephi 28:32). His mercy endureth forever, and His hand is stretched out still. His is the pure love of Christ, the charity that never faileth, that compassion which endures even when all other strength disappears (see Moroni 7:46-47)."

- Jeffrey R. Holland, "Prophets in the Land Again," Ensign, November 2006, pp. 104-7
Click here to read the full talk

It's hard to over-state the importance and blessing of general conferences in the Church. I can only imagine the feeling of those assigned to speak in these settings, as they long for their words to be "uplifting, and if needful as life-changing for each of us" as possible. I appreciated Elder Holland's analysis of the power and importance of the meetings, and how they declare important truth to all the world:

But perhaps more important than what conference says to the whole world, is what is says to me, as a single individual, and to each and every person who listens with humility and sincerity. Particularly for those times when we feel hopeless, lost, or discouraged, Elder Holland testifies that general conference is one of the ways that God reaches His open hands out to us, inviting us into His embrace of comfort, peace, and guidance. If I am willing, general conference is so much more than a series of talks on familiar Gospel topics! I can allow God to speak to me, to teach me, to comfort me, to heal me. What an incomparable blessing that is.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
April 3, 2016

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 meeting the challenges of life

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

"Some people feel that decisions are really out of our hands, that we merely respond to circumstances without choice, like a rudderless ship that drifts at the mercy of the wind and waves. And I agree that there can come a time when we no longer have control over our destinies, but I believe that this is only after the cumulation of our own past decisions has left us helpless. 

"In the beginning, each of us is a bundle of potential that can be developed and shaped by what we choose to do. In youth there is still great malleability. We can choose what we will become. As the years go by, we find our past choices have narrowed the alternatives still open to us and we have less and less control over our future. 

"No one should deny the importance of circumstances, yet in the final analysis the most important thing is how we react to the circumstances. It is a tenet of my faith that every normal person has the capacity, with God's help, to meet the challenge of whatever circumstances may confront him. One of the most comforting scriptures carries the message that God will not leave us helpless–ever. (1 Cor 10:13.)" 

- Spencer W. Kimball, "Decisions: Why It's Important to Make Some Now," New Era, Apr. 1971, 2; click here to read the full article

In his later years, President Kimball's voice was thin and raspy due to the ravages of throat cancer. But he spoke clear and often beautifully-written messages, speaking out strongly and definitively in support of truth. In this case, he refutes the "worldly" idea that man loses control of his own destiny (with rare exception), reminding us that we are responsible for our own fate. Circumstances beyond our control will befall us all; they did to President Kimball. But the critical thing is how we respond to those circumstances. What a great reminder that we each have the potential to choose our direction, our outcome, even our happiness in the journey.

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

February 2, 2015

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland on having faith and hope in times of trial

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.

"I testify that the Father and the Son do live. And I testify that They are close, perhaps even closest via the Holy Spirit, when we are experiencing difficult times. I testify (and as our closing musical number, 'My Kindness Shall Not Depart from Thee,' will testify, quoting the prophet Isaiah) that heaven’s kindness will never depart from you, regardless of what happens (see Isaiah 54:7–10; see also 3 Nephi 22:7–10). I testify that bad days come to an end, that faith always triumphs, and that heavenly promises are always kept. I testify that God is our Father, that Jesus is the Christ, that this is the true and living gospel—found in this, the true and living Church. I testify that President Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God, our prophet for this hour and this day. I love him and sustain him as I know you do. In the words of the Liberty Jail prison-temple experience, my young friends, 'Hold on thy way.... Fear not..., for God shall be with you forever and ever' (D&C 122:9)."

- Jeffrey R. Holland, "Lessons from Liberty Jail," BYU devotional, Sept. 7, 2008
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

Elder Holland~s address to BYU students in 2008 was filled with encouragement and insight. He reviewed Joseph Smith's experience in Liberty Jail, and identified a number of lessons that apply to us today, including discussions of why we sometimes suffer in this life and how we can better cope with them. But a critical part of understanding any trial is the realization that it is temporary:

Through our trials, we can have those truths confirmed: God and righteousness will triumph in the end, and we can learn to "hold on" in His way and trust in his ongoing sustaining presence.

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

Elder Ronald A. Rasband on the value of loyal friends

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.

"Many years ago, in March of 1839, the Prophet Joseph Smith, with several of his companions, had been wrongfully incarcerated for months at Liberty Jail. Many writers of Church history have said that this experience for the Prophet Joseph was certainly one of the most difficult and darkest periods of his entire life. His words 'O God, where art thou?' (D&C 121:1)—as recorded in section 121 of the Doctrine and Covenants—speak of a desperate loneliness in the bleakest of settings.

"The Lord did not appear or send angels; He did not thrash the guards or swing wide the door of that damp, dirty cell. Put simply, He did not change the circumstances, but He spoke comfort and reassurance to Joseph like no other could: 'My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment' (D&C 121:7). It was as if the Lord put His arm around Joseph when He said, 'My son.' Those are precious and tender words. And then He put a timetable on Joseph’s hardship—'a small moment.' What a lesson for all of us to remember. Our hardships will be brief—in eternal terms—and the Lord will be right there.

"Then the Lord said this: 'Thy friends do stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands' (D&C 121:9).

"Here was Joseph, locked in jail by the treachery of men, some of whom had once been his close associates. But the Lord made the point so clear—'thy friends do stand by thee.' How comforting that declaration was to the Prophet Joseph; how comforting to us. Think for a minute what it means to you to know you have someone standing right by you, someone you can trust to be your friend on good days and bad, someone who values you and supports you even when the two of you are apart.

"Our most prized friend is Jesus Christ Himself. Is there any greater assurance than His 'I will be on your right hand and on your left, . . . and mine angels round about you, to bear you up' (D&C 84:88)? So often those 'angels round about' are our friends."

- Ronald A. Rasband, "Thy Friends Do Stand by Thee," BYU Devotional March 7, 2010
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

The challenging and difficult conditions to which Joseph Smith and his companions were subjected in Liberty Jail are heart-rending to us—"a desperate loneliness in the bleakest of settings." For Joseph it was certainly "one of the most difficult and darkest periods of his entire life." Elder Rasband talked about the Lord's reassurance to Joseph during that time, in speaking peace to his soul; but then commented on the further reminder the Lord provided about Joseph's loyal friends:

Certainly the knowledge of friends standing by our side is for us a great blessing, as it was for Joseph. The love and confidence of a devoted friend can be a powerful blessing. We should cultivate and treasure those friendships, and more importantly, seek to be that kind of friend to others.

Perhaps most importantly, though, is the knowledge that Jesus Christ can be "our most prized friend." The Savior gave these beautiful instructions to his ancient disciples:

"Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
"Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you" (John 15:14-15).

It should be a great desire for each of us to be called His friend. And then, to reflect that gift of inspired and inspiring friendship to those around us.

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

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf on the blessings of following the Savior

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf (born November 6, 1940) served as a Seventy from 1994-2004, when he was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve.  He served as second counselor in the First Presidency from 2008 to 2018.

"In a figurative sense, we too are invited to 'behold the man.' ... So, when you ponder the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, what do you see?

"Those who find a way to truly behold the Man find the doorway to life’s greatest joys and the balm to life’s most demanding despairs.

"So, when you are encompassed by sorrows and grief, behold the Man.

"When you feel lost or forgotten, behold the Man.

"When you are despairing, deserted, doubting, damaged, or defeated, behold the Man.

"He will comfort you.

"He will heal you and give meaning to your journey. He will pour out His Spirit and fill your heart with exceeding joy. (See Mosiah 4:20.)

"He gives 'power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.' (Isaiah 40:29.)

"When we truly behold the Man, we learn of Him and seek to align our lives with Him. We repent and strive to refine our natures and daily grow a little closer to Him. We trust Him. We show our love for Him by keeping His commandments and by living up to our sacred covenants.

"In other words, we become His disciples.

"His refining light saturates our souls. His grace uplifts us. Our burdens are lightened, our peace deepened. When we truly behold the Man, we have the promise of a blessed future that inspires and upholds us through the bends and bumps in life’s journey. Looking back, we will recognize that there is a divine pattern, that the dots really connect."

- Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Behold the Man!", General Conference April 2018
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

The New Testament records the incident when Jesus was was brought before Pilate; the Roman prefect questioned him but could find no fault in him. Struggling to know how to resolve the situation in the midst of the demands of the Jewish Sanhedrin for crucifixion, Pilate had Jesus scourged thinking that they might be satisfied. Then displaying Jesus before them, he uttered the unforgettable phrase, "Behold the man." (See John 19:1–5.)

Elder Uchtdorf borrowed that language to apply to our time and situation: in what ways do we "behold the man" of Jesus Christ as we ponder His life and ministry? How do we think of Him, how do we allow Him to influence and bless us? He suggests that when we truly learn to behold Him properly, our life can be deeply blessed:

Power comes when we "truly behold the Man" as we feel the desire to "align our lives with Him" in obedience and spirit, and become His disciples. I love that thought that "His refining light saturates our souls. His grace uplifts us." Truly, there is wondrous power and peace in that path of true discipleship!

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

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin on the Savior's promised help in trials and challenges

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (1917-2008) served as a Seventy from 1976 to 1986, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles from 1986 until his passing in 2008 at age 91.

"Many today feel troubled and distressed; many feel that, at any moment, the ships of their lives could capsize or sink. It is to you who are looking for a safe harbor that I wish to speak today, you whose hearts are breaking, you who are worried or afraid, you who bear grief or the burdens of sin, you who feel no one is listening to your cries, you whose hearts are pleading, 'Master, carest thou not that I perish?' To you I offer a few words of comfort and of counsel.

"Be assured that there is a safe harbor. You can find peace amidst the storms that threaten you. Your Heavenly Father—who knows when even a sparrow falls—knows of your heartache and suffering. He loves you and wants the best for you. Never doubt this. While He allows all of us to make choices that may not always be for our own or even others' well-being, and while He does not always intervene in the course of events, He has promised the faithful peace even in their trials and tribulations....

"Jesus comforts us when He said, 'Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid' (John 14:27).

"Draw close to the Lord Jesus Christ. He bears a special love for those who suffer. He is the Son of God, an eternal king. In His mortal ministry He loved them and blessed them.

"To the meek and discouraged, His every word was one of compassion and encouragement. To the sick, He brought a healing balm. Those who yearned for hope, who yearned for a caring touch, received it from the hand of this King of Kings, this Creator of ocean, earth, and sky.

"Today Jesus the Christ stands at the right hand of our Heavenly Father. Do you suppose that today He is any less inclined to aid those who suffer, who are sick, or who appeal to the Father in prayer for succor?

"Be of good cheer. The Man of Galilee, the Creator, the Son of the Living God will not forget nor forsake those whose hearts are drawn to Him. I testify that the Man who suffered for mankind, who committed His life to healing the sick and comforting the disconsolate, is mindful of your sufferings, doubts, and heartaches."

- Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Finding a Safe Harbor," General Conference, April 2000; see Ensign, May 2000, pp. 59-61
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

We are frequently reminded by Church leaders that times of trouble or distress will come in our lives; but that we do not ever have to face them alone. Sometimes we cry out, with the ancient apostles, "Master, carest thou not that I perish?" And the answer is always, YES, He does care—infinitely and perfectly. Elder Wirthlin testifies that while He may not always intervene in our lives, in the way we hope and ask, He will always be available to provide peace and strength.

The critical need is for us to draw near to Him, so that we can be ready and open to feel His love and comforting spirit.

What a profound message of hope and reassurance! We truly can know that the Savior "will not forget nor forsake those whose hearts are drawn to Him." May we continue to be open to that healing and empowering influence!

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

Elder Gary E. Stevenson on the roles and blessings of the Holy Ghost

Elder Gary E. Stevenson (b. 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.

"The Holy Ghost Warns

"...the Holy Ghost can help you by warning you in advance of physical and spiritual dangers....

"As you heed promptings from the Holy Ghost—impressions most often quiet and still—you may be removed, without ever knowing, from spiritual and temporal danger....

"The Holy Ghost Comforts

"To continue answering the question 'How does the Holy Ghost help you?' let’s now explore His role as Comforter. Unexpected events in all our lives cause sadness, pain, and disappointment. Yet, amid these trials, the Holy Ghost serves us in one of His important roles—as Comforter, which is actually one of His names. These peaceful, reassuring words from Jesus Christ describe this sacred role: 'I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever' (John 14:16)....

"The Holy Ghost Testifies

"The Holy Ghost also testifies and bears witness of the Father and the Son and of all truth. The Lord, speaking to His disciples, said, 'But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, ... he shall testify of me' (John 15:26)."

- Gary E. Stevenson, "How Does the Holy Ghost Help You?," General Conference, April 2017
Click here to watch or read the full talk

Using personal experiences and insights, Elder Stevenson taught about the roles and blessings of the Holy Ghost in our lives. He emphasized three roles: The Holy Ghost warns, comforts, and testifies. For each of these three areas, he shared personal insight and experience from his life.

In concluding his remarks, Elder Stevenson reminded all listeners, whether newly baptized or long-time experienced in the Gospel, how crucial it is to retain the gift of the Holy Ghost as an active part of our lives, to both physical and spiritual safety. Keys to doing that include:

• striving to keep the commandments
• having individual and family prayer
• reading the scriptures
• seeking loving and forgiving relationships with family and loved ones
• keep our thoughts, actions, and language virtuous
• worship our Heavenly Father in our homes, at church, and, whenever possible, in the holy temple
• stay close to the Spirit, and the Spirit will stay close to you

Elder Ronald A. Rasband on the sacred gift of the Holy Ghost

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.

"Our Father in Heaven knew that in mortality we would face challenges, tribulation, and turmoil; He knew we would wrestle with questions, disappointments, temptations, and weaknesses. To give us mortal strength and divine guidance, He provided the Holy Spirit, another name for the Holy Ghost.

"The Holy Ghost binds us to the Lord. By divine assignment, He inspires, testifies, teaches, and prompts us to walk in the light of the Lord. We have the sacred responsibility to learn to recognize His influence in our lives and respond.

"Remember the Lord’s promise: 'I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy.' (D&C 11:13) I love that assurance. Joy that fills our souls brings with it an eternal perspective in contrast to day-to-day living. That joy comes as peace amidst hardship or heartache. It provides comfort and courage, unfolds the truths of the gospel, and expands our love for the Lord and all God’s children. Although the need for such blessings is so great, in many ways the world has forgotten and forsaken them."

- Ronald A. Rasband, "Let the Holy Spirit Guide," General Conference, April 2017
Click here to watch or read the full talk

The role of Comforter as one of the assignments of the Holy Ghost is a precious one to me. As Elder Rasband explains, we are all confronted with "challenges, tribulation, and turmoil" in this life and we often fact "questions, disappointments, temptations, and weaknesses." Through the gift of the Holy Spirit, we are able to find "mortal strength and divine guidance" to help confront and endure.

The simple statement that the Holy Ghost "binds us to the Lord" implies so much about our covenant life and the blessings that accompany discipleship. When we consider the sacred role of the Holy Ghost, how blessed we are to have the understanding of His role!

The rest of Elder Rasband's address keys on the phrase from the sacramental prayers, that we "may always have His spirit to be with [us]." He suggests ways we can help facilitate that goal: living worthy of the Spirit, being willing to receive the Spirit when it comes to us, recognizing its promptings, and acting on the first promptings.

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin on the Savior's support in the storms of life

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (1917-2008) served as a Seventy from 1976 to 1986, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles from 1986 until his passing in 2008 at age 91.

"When you feel tossed by the storms of life and when the waves rise and the winds howl, on those occasions it would be natural for you to cry in your heart, 'Master, carest thou not that I perish?' When these times come, think back upon that day when the Savior awakened in the stern of the ship, rose up and rebuked the storm. 'Peace, be still,' He said. (Mark 4:39.)

"At times we may be tempted to think the Savior is oblivious to our trials. In fact, the reverse is true; it is we who need to be awakened in our hearts to His teachings.

"Use your ingenuity, your strength, your might to resolve your challenges. Do all you can do and then leave the rest to the Lord. President Howard W. Hunter said: 'If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and his teachings, no other success can ever be permanently right.' (THWH 40)

"Living the gospel does not mean the storms of life will pass us by, but we will be better prepared to face them with serenity and peace. 'Search diligently, pray always, and be believing,' the Lord admonished, 'and all things shall work together for your good, if ye walk uprightly.' (D&C 90:24.)

"Draw close to the Lord Jesus Christ. Be of good cheer. Keep the faith. Doubt not. The storms will one day be stilled....

"The gospel gives us that harbor of enduring safety and security. The living prophet and the apostles today are as lighthouses in the storm. Steer towards the light of the restored gospel and the inspired teachings of those who represent the Lord on earth."

- Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Finding a Safe Harbor," Ensign, May 2000, pp. 59-61
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

The Master is always aware of the storms we occasionally pass through in life. He knows how they impact us; He knows how we struggle under the beating rains and howling winds. And He is prepared to not only calm the storm, but support us through the storm while we learn from the experience. He is never "oblivious to our trials." But we may be oblivious to His love and care that are constantly expressed.

Elder Wirthlin's reminder is to focus on the Savior's teachings when the storms come. We must use all our resources to control and survive the storm; but then, as we turn to Him in faith, obedience, and trust, "the storms will one day be stilled."

The Savior's eternal reassurance is, "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." (John 14:18.) As we focus on the lighthouses He has provided for us, we will find the safe and peaceful harbor.

President Howard W. Hunter on lives centered on Christ

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

"My message to you today is to 'fear not, little flock.' It is to encourage you to rejoice in the great blessings of life. It is to invite you to feel the great thrill of gospel living and our Father in Heaven's love. Life is wonderful, even in the hard times, and there is happiness, joy, and peace at stops all along the way, and endless portions of them at the end of the road.

"Sure, there are plenty of things to worry about—some of them very serious things—but that is why we speak in gospel terms of faith, and hope, and charity. As Latter-day Saints, ours is 'the abundant life,' and we try to emphasize our blessings and opportunities while we minimize our disappointments and worries. 'Search diligently, pray always, and be believing,' the scripture says, 'and all things shall work together for your good' (D&C 90:24). I want to remind you of that promise....

"Please remember this one thing. If our lives and our faith are centered upon Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and his teachings, no other success can ever be permanently right."

- Howard W. Hunter, "Fear Not, Little Flock," BYU Devotional, March 14, 1989
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

I've always loved the words President Hunter quotes, given anciently by the Savior (Luke 12:32) and then re-emphasized in modern revelation:

"Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail." (D&C 6:34)

It does not matter what is happening around us, or to us. "Life is wonderful, even in the hard times." With the perspective of eternal hope and the understanding of God's love for us, there truly is "happiness, joy, and peace at stops all along the way, and endless portions of them at the end of the road."

However, the reminder from D&C 90:24 is also very important. All things will work together for our good, if we demonstrate to God our willingness to follow in faith and obey with diligence.

Ronald A. Rasband on the sacred blessing of temple worship

Elder Ronald A. Rasband (b. 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.

"What temples bring to families and individuals seeking to draw closer to the Lord Jesus Christ and our Father in Heaven, seeking peace in a fractured world, seeking comfort in times of trouble cannot be calculated....

"Years ago, at the Logan Temple Cornerstone Ceremony in 1877, President George Q. Cannon said this:

"'Every foundation stone that is laid for a temple and every temple completed, lessens the power of Satan on the earth, and increases the power of God and Godliness, moves the heavens in mighty power in our behalf, invokes and calls down upon us the blessings of eternal Gods and those who reside in their presence.' [Millennial Star, November 12, 1877, p. 743]

"Certainly in a day and time like we live in, the importance of every temple built and dedicated to the Lord cannot be overstated.

"Prophets, seers, and revelators have promised us blessings, as we faithfully attend the temple....

"Now I ask each of you, to what end and what purpose is all of this focus and emphasis on temples? ... Let me point you to a passage of scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 52:14:

"'And again, I will give unto you a pattern in all things, that ye may not be deceived; for Satan is abroad in the land, and he goeth forth deceiving the nations—'

"Temple worship is an important pattern for each of us as individuals, and as families. It is critical at every stage of your life."

- Ronald A. Rasband, "Stand in Holy Places," BYU-Idaho Business and Communication Convocation Winter 2016, 8 Apr 2016
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For those of us who are "seeking peace in a fractured world, seeking comfort in times of trouble," Elder Rasband testifies that temple worship can help us draw closer to God and find those things. In fact, that is one of their great purposes, providing us the "holy place" where we can escape from the world and its influence, as George Q. Cannon testified:

It's interesting to consider how temple worship is a "pattern" for us as individuals and families. But I can add my witness to Elder Rasband's remarks; when I attend the temple regularly, I feel the power and strength that result.

Neil L. Andersen on the blessings of reading the Book of Mormon

Elder Neil L. Andersen (b. 1951) served as a Seventy beginning in 1993, and was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2009.

"In the commotion, busyness, and uncertainty of our lives, our families yearn for peace. We need our homes to be places of refuge, places of calm, places of truth.

"President Gordon B. Hinckley has given a beautiful promise as we read the Book of Mormon: 'Without reservation I promise you... there will come into your lives and into your homes an added measure of the Spirit of the Lord, a strengthened resolution to walk in obedience to His commandments, and a stronger testimony of the living reality of the Son of God' (Ensign, Aug. 2005, 6). Surely these are promises of great peace that we need in our families.

"The Book of Mormon is a remarkable spiritual history. The words of prophets were passed down through the centuries from father to son, guarded and preserved through difficulty and war, brought together and summarized, and then laid to rest for centuries, finally to come forth in this dispensation of the fulness of times. Is it any wonder that the Spirit of the Lord, transcending all languages and cultures, is found in such abundance in this holy book?

"The promise of comfort and peace is nestled in every chapter and verse of the Book of Mormon. We need only approach this book prayerfully and with faith, and the Savior's peace will permeate our searching."

- Neil L. Andersen, "The Book of Mormon: The Great Purveyor of the Savior's Peace," Ensign, January 2008, p. 34
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In offering encouragement to help us have our homes be "places of refuge, places of calm, places of truth," Elder Andersen draws on a promise given by President Hinckley in August 2005 when he challenged all members of the Church to re-read the Book of Mormon before the end of that year. I remember it being a remarkable time, seeing people carrying their Books and reading in public settings in order to complete the challenge. It created a unique sense of unity in the Church, joining individuals together in a great purpose. And so many realized the promises President Hinckley offered:

Of course, that promise applies not just to a Church-wide reading program but to our individual, ongoing programs of scripture study. The promises are real. As Elder Andersen says, "Surely these are promises of great peace that we need in our families."

And Elder Andersen offers his own promise:

Robert D. Hales on the precious gift of the Holy Ghost

Elder Robert D. Hales (1932- ) served as a Seventy from 1976 to 1985, when he was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles.

"As members of the Church, we may experience the companionship of the Holy Ghost continually. Through the restored priesthood of God, we are baptized by immersion for the remission of our sins and then confirmed members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In this ordinance, we are given the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the hands of the holders of the priesthood. Thereafter, we can receive and retain the companionship of the Holy Ghost by always remembering the Savior, keeping His commandments, repenting of our sins, and worthily partaking of the sacrament on the Sabbath day.

"The Holy Ghost provides personal revelation to help us make major life decisions about such things as education, missions, careers, marriage, children, where we will live with our families, and so on. In these matters, Heavenly Father expects us to use our agency, study the situation out in our minds according to gospel principles, and bring a decision to Him in prayer.

"Personal revelation is essential, but it is only one part of the work of the Holy Ghost. As the scriptures attest, the Holy Ghost also testifies of the Savior and God the Father (see John 15:26; Romans 8:16). He teaches us 'the peaceable things of the kingdom' (D&C 39:6) and causes us to 'abound in hope' (Romans 15:13). He 'leadeth [us] to do good... [and] to judge righteously' (D&C 11:12). He gives 'to every man [and woman]... a [spiritual] gift... that all may be profited thereby' (D&C 46:11-12; see also Moroni 10:8–17; D&C 13–16). He 'giveth [us] knowledge' (Alma 18:35) and 'bring[s] all things to [our] remembrance' (John 14:26). Through the Holy Ghost, we 'may be sanctified' (3 Nephi 27:20) and receive 'a remission of [our] sins' (2 Nephi 31;17). He is the 'Comforter,' the same who was 'promised unto [the Savior’s] disciples' (D&C 88:3).

"I remind all of us that the Holy Ghost is not given to control us. Some of us unwisely seek the Holy Ghost’s direction on every minor decision in our lives. This trivializes His sacred role. The Holy Ghost honors the principle of agency. He speaks to our minds and our hearts gently about many matters of consequence (see D&C 8:2-3)."

- Robert D. Hales, "The Holy Ghost," General Conference, April 2016, Sunday afternoon session
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Elder Hales is the 5th oldest among the current apostles at 83 years old, but he seems to be aging rapidly and his messages bear the mark of one focusing on "things that matter most." This talk was one he specifically shared not just with the Church, but with his own posterity. His counsel about receiving and retaining the gift of the Holy Ghost was very personal and powerful—a wonderful reminder of the blessings available to all who have been given that wonderful gift.

We've been reminded many times of the process to receive the Holy Ghost's influence, reviewed by Elder Hales as:

• always remembering the Savior
• keeping His commandments
• repenting of our sins
• worthily partaking of the sacrament on the Sabbath day

Having that gift gives us the right to personal revelation in the important decisions of our lives. Elder Hales went on to enumerate other blessings from the Holy Ghost, as documented in the scriptures:

However, he also reminded us of the eternal gift of agency; the role of the Holy Ghost is not to dictate or force every decision, but to guide and sustain us in our own choices.

I appreciated this message as a timely reminder of fundamental truths and blessings available to me personally—a gift that I should seek and treasure.

Jeffrey R. Holland on the blessings of General Conference

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (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.

"I think it is safe to say that the prayer all the brethren and sisters have had as they have spoken this weekend is that general conference will have been as uplifting, and if needful as life-changing for each of us... who semi-annually respond to our LDS hymn, 'Come, listen to a prophet's voice, and hear the word of God' (Hymns, no. 21).

"In my own expression of testimony and gratitude for the messages and meaning of general conference, may I suggest three things these twice-yearly gatherings declare to all the world.

"First, they declare eagerly and unequivocally that there is again a living prophet on the earth speaking in the name of the Lord. And how we need such guidance! Our times are turbulent and difficult. We see wars internationally and distress domestically. Neighbors all around us face personal heartaches and family sorrows. Legions know fear and troubles of a hundred kinds....

"Secondly, each of these conferences marks a call to action not only in our own lives but also on behalf of others around us, those who are of our own family and faith and those who are not....

"Lastly, a general conference of the Church is a declaration to all the world that Jesus is the Christ....

"To all of you who think you are lost or without hope, or who think you have done too much that was too wrong for too long, to every one of you who worry that you are stranded somewhere on the wintry plains of life and have wrecked your handcart in the process, this conference calls out Jehovah's unrelenting refrain, '[My] hand is stretched out still' (see Isaiah 5:25; 9:17, 21). 'I shall lengthen out mine arm unto them,' He said, '[and even if they] deny me; nevertheless, I will be merciful unto them, ... if they will repent and come unto me; for mine arm is lengthened out all the day long, saith the Lord God of Hosts' (2 Nephi 28:32). His mercy endureth forever, and His hand is stretched out still. His is the pure love of Christ, the charity that never faileth, that compassion which endures even when all other strength disappears (see Moroni 7:46-47)."

- Jeffrey R. Holland, "Prophets in the Land Again," Ensign, November 2006, pp. 104-7
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It's hard to over-state the importance and blessing of general conferences in the Church. I can only imagine the feeling of those assigned to speak in these settings, as they long for their words to be "uplifting, and if needful as life-changing for each of us" as possible. I appreciated Elder Holland's analysis of the power and importance of the meetings, and how they declare important truth to all the world:

But perhaps more important than what conference says to the whole world, is what is says to me, as a single individual, and to each and every person who listens with humility and sincerity. Particularly for those times when we feel hopeless, lost, or discouraged, Elder Holland testifies that general conference is one of the ways that God reaches His open hands out to us, inviting us into His embrace of comfort, peace, and guidance. If I am willing, general conference is so much more than a series of talks on familiar Gospel topics.

M. Russell Ballard on the joyful Sabbath Day

Elder M. Russell Ballard (1928- ) was called as a Seventy in 1976, and has served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1985.

"The recent emphasis of making the Sabbath a delight is a direct result of inspiration from the Lord through the leaders of the Church....

"All of us are blessed when the Sabbath is filled with love for the Lord at home and at church. When our children are taught in the ways of the Lord, they learn to feel and to respond to His Spirit. We will all desire to attend each Sunday to partake of the sacrament when we feel the Spirit of the Lord. And all, young and old, who are carrying heavy burdens will feel the spiritual uplift and comfort that comes from a Sabbath day of devoted contemplation of our Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

"Thankfully, Christ is always near, waiting and willing to help us when we pray for help and are willing to repent and come unto Him."

- M. Russell Ballard, "God is at the Helm," Ensign, November 2015, pp. 24-27
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What a blessing the Sabbath day is — truly a gift from God to man! And like all gifts, it can be received or ignored. Elder Ballard mentions several ways we actively receive that gift. When "the Sabbath is filled with love for the Lord" then we are richly blessed.

I particularly like the statement, "And all, young and old, who are carrying heavy burdens will feel the spiritual uplift and comfort that comes from a Sabbath day of devoted contemplation of our Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." I have truly felt that, and am grateful for the blessings that come when the gift of the Sabbath is received. How blessed we are that "Christ is always near" when we are willing to invite Him into our lives!