Sunday March 9 2008
I love it when a speaker at church gives a talk on something I’m good about. That is a rare occurrence. More often I see where I need drastic improvement.
Such is the case with this discourse by the late Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley. I have read it many times. I present it to you as a jewel, something that has been of great value to me.
In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons), young men are called to the priesthood at a young age (twelve, usually). Year after year we are taught that we are not called to command, but to serve.
Doctrine and Covenants 121:
41 No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned;
As usual, I find great need for improvement in my own life.
In other words, even if I have authority to dictate “how it’s going to be” I should still work by loving kindness and patience, and not by coercion. I think this is one of the great Tests. Even Heavenly Father, with all power and knowledge, with-holds himself from using coercion on us, letting us figure things out for ourselves, even when we are hurting ourselves or others.
I reach my words out to those that may read this. May your life be blessed. I encourage you with my whole heart. Keep your chin up!