In his talk “It’s True, Isn’t It? Then What Else Matters?” Elder Neal A Anderson speaks about the importance of living the gospel completely. He opens his talk by sharing the story of a young man who was returning home to Korea after joining the church. He was talking to President Hinckley who asked him if he could handle giving up his family, his friends and possibly his career for the church. The young man replied by pointing out that since he knew the church was true, nothing else mattered. This young man knew that things would work out if he did the right thing.
Elder Anderson goes on to say that there are things that do matter in our lives. It is important to realize what things to avoid what things are all right, and what things are essential in our lives journey. He points out that prioritizing our lives is an important part of the living the gospel. He then says:
“Faith is not only a feeling; it is a decision. With prayer, study, obedience, and covenants, we build and fortify our faith. Our conviction of the Savior and His latter-day work becomes the powerful lens through which we judge all else. Then, as we find ourselves in the crucible of life, as Elder Oaks explained, we have the strength to take the right course.”
Elder Anderson goes on to share examples of saints throughout the world who are living their convictions through their quiet every day actions. He shares powerful stories of members who are doing what they can in the face of adversity and that through these actions the Lord is sustaining them and blessing them. These stories can reach out to each of us.
This is a wonderfully powerful talk. The importance of living and following our convictions is demonstrated through the many stories that are shared. Elder Anderson encourages us each to live the gospel more fully. It is important that we each take the time to look inside of ourselves. This talk helped me to realize that I need to look at my current priorities and make sure that they are in line with the gospel. I hope that you will take the time to read this talk.
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