In his talk, “The Priesthood—A Sacred Gift,” President Thomas S. Monson speaks about the importance of living worthy of the priesthood. He points out the number of men who hold the priesthood compared to the number of people in the world. He reminds the men that the priesthood is the power of God and that they need to live worthy of it. He warns that the world has many things in it that entice people away from righteous living.
President Monson goes on to say that it is important to have courage. It is the courage to do what is right. It is also the courage to accept the calls that you are given. President Monson shares the story of how he was called to serve in a Stake Presidency at a young age and how he responded. He pointed out that it takes courage to live the right way, and to do the things that are expected of you.
President Monson went on to emphasize that the priesthood is a lifelong responsibility and commitment. He points out that the power of the priesthood is only limited in how worthy the man who bears it is. He challenges the men to live worthy of the priesthood.
President Monson shares the story of the first time he gave a priesthood blessing. This occurred while he was serving in the Navy. President Monson then shared the story of another time when he comforted a family and a dying man with a priesthood blessing. President Monson ends his talk by saying:
“My brethren, let us ever remember that the priesthood of God which we bear is a sacred gift which brings to us and to those we serve the blessings of heaven. May we, in whatever place we may be, honor and protect that priesthood. May we ever be on the Lord’s errand, that we might ever be entitled to the Lord’s help.
There is a war being waged for men’s souls—yours and mine. It continues without abatement. Like a clarion call comes the word of the Lord to you and to me and to priesthood holders everywhere: ‘Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.’”
This is a wonderful talk by President Monson. Even though it is directed to the men of the church, I believe that we can all benefit from what it teaches. It is important to live the commandments completely. There are times when it takes courage to stand up for your convictions and to do the things that you know are right. I really enjoyed the stories that President Monson used to illustrate his points. I hope that you will each take time to read his talk.
Related Articles:
General Conference: “Let Us Be Men”
General Conference: “A Royal Priesthood”
General Conference: “Our Sacred Priesthood Trust”