In his talk “Instruments of the Lord’s Peace” Elder Robert S Wood speaks about the importance of staying true to the principles of Jesus Christ as we interact with the people around us. He says:
“Alma at the waters of Mormon invited those who would enter into a covenant relationship with God to stand as witnesses of God and to bear one another’s burdens. As those who have indeed entered into a sacred covenant, we must remain true to the way, the truth, and the life, who is Jesus Christ.
Have we who have taken upon us the name of Christ slipped unknowingly into patterns of slander, evil speaking, and bitter stereotyping? Have personal or partisan or business or religious differences been translated into a kind of demonizing of those of different views? Do we pause to understand the seemingly different positions of others and seek, where possible, common ground?”
Elder Wood speaks about people, who in the defense of a certain viewpoint belittle those who disagree with them. He says that it is important to realize that there are good people among all different opinions. It does little to support your cause to belittle those who do not.
Elder Wood speaks specifically about avoiding mockery and cynicism. He speaks of the negative impact it has on both those who listen to it and those who use it to support their beliefs. It tears down individuals instead of building up people. It chooses to not believe in the goodness of people.
While Elder Wood says that we need to choose carefully the way express ourselves, he does stress the importance of standing up for the things we believe in. He speaks about the time of darkness that is on the earth today. He speaks of the wrath of the Lord and the wrath of the wicked.
Elder Wood goes on to speak about the need for those who believe in Christ to stand as instruments for him. It is through the example of the righteous others will be brought to the knowledge of the gospel. As we seek to do what is right, we will stand as examples and draw others towards us.
I especially enjoyed reading and thinking about the example of the righteous amidst the darkness of the world. It is important to remember that everything that we say and do can influence those around us for the better or for the worse. It is important to remember as members of the church that we are being observed by those around us. I hope that you will take the time to read this wonderful talk.