(1/12/99)
"Atonement is really three words: At-one-ment, meaning: to set at one,
one with God; to reconcile, to conciliate, to expiate." — Boyd K.
Packer, "Atonement,
Agency, Accountability," General Conference, April 1988
(4/17/99)
"The Twelve bridge the line of authority from one administration to
another and keep the line unbroken." — Boyd K. Packer, "The
Shield of Faith," Ensign, May 1995, p. 7
(11/6/99)
"The gospel might be likened to the keyboard of a piano--a full keyboard
with a selection of keys on which one who is trained can play a variety
without limits; a ballad to express love, a march to rally, a melody to
soothe, and a hymn to inspire; an endless variety to suit every mood and
satisfy every need. How shortsighted it is, then, to choose a single key
and endlessly tap out the monotony of a single note, or even two or
three notes, when the full keyboard of limitless harmony can be played."
— "The Only True And Living Church," General Conference, October 1971
(11/7/99)
"Irreverence suits the purposes of the adversary by obstructing the
delicate channels of revelation in both mind and spirit." — "Reverence
Invites Revelation," General Conference, October 1991
(11/8/99)
"Secular doctrines have the advantage of convincing, tangible evidence.
We seem to do better in gathering data on things that can be counted and
measured. Doctrines which originate in the light, on the other hand, are
more often supported by intangible impressions upon the spirit. We are
left for the most part to rely on faith. But, in time, the consequences
of following either will become visible enough." — "Little Children,"
General Conference, October 1986
(11/9/99)
"You need not know everything before the power of the Atonement will
work for you. Have faith in Christ; it begins to work the day you ask!"
— "Washed Clean," General Conference, April 1997
(11/10/99)
"President Harold B. Lee told me once of a conversation he had with
Charles A. Callis of the Quorum of the Twelve. Brother Callis had
remarked that the gift of discernment was an awesome burden to carry. To
see clearly what is ahead and yet find members slow to respond or
resistant to counsel or even rejecting the witness of Apostles and
Prophets brings deep sorrow." — "The Twelve Apostles," General
Conference, October 1996
(11/11/99)
"Before the Crucifixion and afterward, many men have willingly given
their lives in selfless acts of heroism. But none faced what the Christ
endured. Upon Him was the burden of all human transgression, all human
guilt. And hanging in the balance was the Atonement. Through His willing
act, mercy and justice could be reconciled, eternal law sustained, and
that mediation achieved without which mortal man could not be redeemed."
— "Atonement, Agency, Accountability," General Conference, April 1988
(11/11/00)
"We may foolishly bring unhappiness and trouble, even suffering upon
ourselves. These are not always to be regarded as penalties imposed by a
displeased Creator. They are part of the lessons of life, part of the
test. Some are tested by poor health, some by a body that is deformed or
homely. Others are tested by handsome and healthy bodies; some by the
passion of youth; others by the erosions of age. Some suffer
disappointment in marriage, family problems; others live in poverty and
obscurity. Some (perhaps this is the hardest test) find ease and luxury.
All are part of the test, and there is more equality in this testing
than sometimes we suspect." — Boyd K. Packer, "The
Choice," General Conference, October 1980
(2/10/02)
"In the Church we do not assume authority belonging to either an
ordained or a set apart office or calling. We must be called to a
position and sustained, be ordained or set apart and given authority.
The fifth Article of Faith says, 'We believe that a man must be called
of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in
authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances
thereof.' (A of F 1:5.)"
— Boyd K. Packer, "What
Every Elder Should Know--and Every Sister as Well: A Primer on
Principles of Priesthood Government," Ensign, Feb. 1993, p.
11
(2/11/02)
"'We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the
laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel
and administer in the ordinances thereof.' The priesthood is conferred
through ordination, not simply through making a covenant or receiving a
blessing. It has been so since the beginning. Regardless of what they
may assume or imply or infer from anything which has been said or
written, past or present, specific ordination to an office in the
priesthood is the way, and the only way, it has been or is now
conferred." — Boyd K. Packer, "The
Temple, the Priesthood," Ensign, May 1993, p. 20
(5/05/03)
"There are two kinds of faith. One of them functions ordinarily in the
life of every soul. It is the kind of faith born by experience; it gives
us certainty that a new day will dawn, that spring will come, that
growth will take place. It is the kind of faith that relates us with
confidence to that which is scheduled to happen. This kind of faith was
exemplified by the little Japanese girl. There is another kind of faith,
rare indeed. This is the kind of faith that causes things to happen. It
is the kind of faith that is worthy and prepared and unyielding, and it
calls forth things that otherwise would not be. It is the kind of faith
that moves people. It is the kind of faith that sometimes moves things.
Few men possess it. It comes by gradual growth. It is a marvelous, even
a transcendent, power, a power as real and as invisible as electricity.
Directed and channeled, it has great effect." — Boyd K. Packer, "What is
Faith?" "Faith," [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1983], p. 42
(8/29/03)
"The scriptures point out that 'though your sins be as scarlet, they
shall be as white as snow' (Isaiah
1:18). A marvelous cleansing spirit turns the lights on again,
which puts the color back into life. When it has entered a person’s life
he can be in the presence of himself, his fellows, and the Lord, and be
at peace." — Boyd K. Packer, "The Things of the Soul," [Salt Lake City,
Utah: Bookcraft, 1996]
(10/21/03)
"Now words can be used as weapons against you. If they throw the word diversity
at you, grab hold of it and say, 'I am already diverse, and I intend to
stay diverse.' If the word is tolerance, grab that one, too,
saying, 'I expect you to be tolerant of my lifestyle-obedience,
integrity, abstinence, repentance.' If the word is choice,
tell them you choose good, old-fashioned morality. You choose to be a
worthy husband or wife, a worthy parent." -- Boyd K. Packer, "The
Standard of Truth Has Been Erected," General Conference, 4 October
2003
(11/19/03)
In keeping faith I hope you are able to know that there are some things
that must be taken on faith; and that, in our insatiable quest for
knowledge, always preparatory to and preliminary to gaining spiritual
knowledge there is the exercise of faith." - Boyd K. Packer, "Let Not
Your Heart Be Troubled," [Salt Lake City, Utah: Bookcraft, 1991], p. 148
(12/2/03)
"As members of the Church we are not just cut loose and left to shift
for ourselves in this world. That would be a terrible thing. We are not
left adrift. That constant spiritual guidance that we have in the Church
is a clear signal, if we live for it and if we follow it.... Inspiration
can come, of course, from sources other than through the Holy Ghost." -
Boyd K. Packer, "Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled," [Salt Lake City, Utah:
Bookcraft, 1991], p. 240
(12/15/03)
"Generally we understand that, conditioned upon repentance, the
ordinance of baptism washes our sins away. Some wonder if they were
baptized too soon. If only they could be baptized now and have a clean
start. But that is not necessary! Through the ordinance of the sacrament
you renew the covenants made at baptism. When you meet all of the
conditions of repentance, however difficult, you may be forgiven and
your transgressions will trouble your mind no more." - Boyd K. Packer, "Washed
Clean," General Conference, April 1997
(2/24/04)
"Our critics' belief, based on the Bible, holds that man is saved by
grace alone. Theirs is by far the easier way. Our position, also based
on the Bible but strengthened by other scriptures, holds that we are
saved by grace 'after all we can do,' (2
Ne. 25:23.) and we are responsible by conduct and by covenants to
live the standards of the gospel." - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Peaceable Followers of Christ," Ensign, Apr. 1998, p. 65
(4/2/04)
"No message appears in scripture more times, in more ways than, 'Ask,
and ye shall receive.' (Matt.
21:22; James 4:3;
1 Jn. 3:22; 1
Ne. 15:11; Enos
1:15; Mosiah
4:21; D&C 4:7;
and Moses 6:52
are examples.) While we may invite this communication, it can never
be forced! If we try to force it, we may be deceived." - Boyd K. Packer,
"Reverence
Invites Revelation," Ensign, Nov. 1991, p. 21
(5/19/04)
"With the proper serum, the physical body is protected against disease.
We can also protect our children from moral and spiritual diseases. The
word inoculate has two parts: in -'to be within'-and oculate
means 'eye to see.' When children are baptized and confirmed (see D&C
20:41, 43; 33:15),
we place an eye within them -the unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost (see
D&C 121:26).
With the Restoration of the gospel came authority to confer this gift."
- Boyd K. Packer, "Do
Not Fear," General Conference, April 2004
(6/10/04)
"Faithful attendance at Church, together with careful attention to the
needs of the family, is a near-perfect combination. In Church we are
taught the Great Plan of Happiness. (See Alma
12:32.) At home we apply what we have learned. Every call, every
service in the Church brings experience and valuable insights which
carry over into family life." — Boyd K. Packer, "Parents
in Zion," Ensign, November 1998, p. 23
(7/22/04)
"The flow of revelation depends on your faith. You exercise faith by
causing, or by making, your mind accept or believe as truth that which
you cannot, by reason alone, prove for certainty. (See Alma
32:27-28, 38.)" - Boyd K. Packer, "Personal
Revelation: The Gift, the Test, and the Promise," Ensign, November
1994, p. 60
(8/4/04)
"The code for moral law is found in the scriptures, stated as simply as,
'Wickedness never was happiness.' (Alma
41:10.) The
scriptures speak in general terms, leaving us free to apply the
principles of the gospel to meet the infinite variety of life. But when
they say 'thou shalt not,' we had better pay attention." - Boyd K.
Packer, "Our
Moral Environment," Ensign, May 1992, p. 68
(8/24/04)
"It is not an easy church to belong to. The gospel requires dedication
and sacrifice. It is not an easy church to administer. With the patterns
of the priesthood as they are, men and women are called from every walk
of life to teach and to lead and to serve. We have members with every
level of gospel knowledge, leadership ability, talents, and testimony.
We learn to be patient with one another." - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Peaceable Followers of Christ," Ensign, April 1998, p. 66
(9/3/04)
"We
could come away from our study of Elijah with no more important
lesson than to recognize how the Lord communicates with his children
here upon the earth: through the still, small voice that is so
difficult to describe to one who has never experienced it and is
almost unnecessary to describe to one who has. That sweet, quiet
voice of inspiration that comes more as a feeling than it does as a
sound. That process through which pure intelligence can be spoken
into the mind and we can know and understand and have witness of
spiritual things. The process is not reserved for the prophets
alone, but every righteous seeking soul who will qualify and make
himself worthy can have that manner of communication, even as a
gift." - Boyd K. Packer, "The Holy Temple" [Salt Lake City:
Bookcraft, 1980], p. 107
(10/24/04)
"It is not an easy thing for us to defend the position that bothers
so many others. But, brethren and sisters, never be ashamed of the
gospel of Jesus Christ. Never apologize for the sacred doctrines of
the gospel. Never feel inadequate and unsettled because you cannot
explain them to the satisfaction of all who might enquire of you. Do
not be ill at ease or uncomfortable because you can give little more
than your conviction." - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Peaceable Followers of Christ," Ensign, April 1998, p. 67
(1/21/05)
"There is a power of communication as real and tangible as
electricity. Man has devised the means to send images and sound
through the air to be caught on an antenna and reproduced and heard
and seen. This other communication may be likened to that, save it
be a million times more powerful, and the witness it brings is
always the truth.
"There is a process by which pure intelligence can flow, by which we
can come to know of a surety, nothing doubting." - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Spirit Beareth Record," Ensign, June 1971, p. 88
(2/3/05)
"Would you agree to send students to just any school, taking any
variety of courses, and then award them specialized degrees,
anything they wanted-in architecture, law, medicine? Such an
attitude would suggest that a man would be just as good a surgeon by
not studying for it as he would by following the prerequisite
courses. No person who has given it real substantial thought would
take such a position, and neither you nor I would want to be under
the knife of a surgeon who had been trained, or maybe I should say
'untrained,' in such a pattern.
"Isn't it strange, then, that so many are able to apply such a view
toward religion. They advocate: Go to any school, take any course,
or go to no school at all, and we'll all end up in the same place
with the same heavenly diploma.
"That just isn't reasonable, nor is it true.
"The position that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
is the only true church upon the face of the earth is fundamental.
Perhaps it would be more convenient and palatable and popular if we
were to avoid it; nevertheless, we are under a sacred obligation and
a sacred trust to hold to it. It is not merely an admission; it is a
positive declaration. It is so fundamental that we cannot yield on
this point." - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Only True and Living Church," Ensign, Dec. 1971, p. 40
(3/10/05)
"Who would dare to say that angels do not now attend the rank and
file of the Church who-
"answer the calls to the mission fields,
"teach the classes,
"pay their tithes and offerings,
"seek for the records of their forebears,
"work in the temples,
"raise their children in faith,
"and have brought this work through [the] years?...
"I feel compelled,... to certify to you that I know that the day of
miracles has not ceased.
"I know that angels minister unto men." - Boyd K. Packer, "A
Tribute to the Rank and File of the Church," Ensign, May 1980,
p. 65
(4/11/05)
"Life moves all too fast. When you feel weak, discouraged,
depressed, or afraid, open the Book of Mormon and read. Do not let
too much time pass before reading a verse, a thought, or a chapter."
- Boyd K. Packer, "The
Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ-Plain and
Precious Things," General Conference, April 2005
(5/16/05)
"This is what I
would teach you. Choose from among the sacred music of the Church a
favorite hymn, one with words that are uplifting and music that is
reverent, one that makes you feel something akin to inspiration.
Remember President Lee’s counsel; perhaps 'I Am A Child of God' would
do. Go over it in your mind carefully. Memorize it. Even though you
have had no musical training, you can think through a hymn.
Now, use this hymn as the place for your thoughts to go. Make it your
emergency channel. Whenever you find these shady actors have slipped
from the sidelines of your thinking onto the stage of your mind, put
on this record, as it were.
As the music begins and as the words form in your thoughts, the
unworthy ones will slip shamefully away. It will change the whole mood
on the stage of your mind. Because it is uplifting and clean, the
baser thoughts will disappear. For while virtue, by choice, will not
associate with filth, evil cannot tolerate the presence of light." -
Boyd K. Packer, "Inspiring
Music—Worthy Thoughts," Ensign, Jan. 1974, p. 28
(5/30/05)
"Those who make one serious mistake
tend to add another by assuming that it is then too late for them. It
is never too late! Never!" - Boyd K. Packer, "To
Young Women and Men," Ensign, May 1989, 59
(6/21/05)
"The Holy Ghost communicates with the spirit through the mind more
than through the physical senses. This guidance comes as thoughts, as
feelings, through impressions and promptings. It is not always easy to
describe inspiration. The scriptures teach us that we may 'feel' the
words of spiritual communication more than hear them, and see with
spiritual rather than with mortal eyes. [See 1
Ne. 17:45.]
"The patterns of revelation are not dramatic. The voice of inspiration
is a still voice, a small voice. There need be no trance, no
sanctimonious declaration. It is quieter and simpler than that." -
Boyd K. Packer, "Revelation
in a Changing World," Ensign, Nov. 1989, 14
(7/11/05)
"The Word of Wisdom does not promise you perfect health, but it
teaches how to keep the body you were born with in the best condition
and your mind alert to delicate spiritual promptings....
"The promise of health for living the standard of the revelation is
not limited to members of the Church. Tell your nonmember friends
about the Word of Wisdom and urge them to live it." - Boyd K. Packer,
"The
Word of Wisdom: The Principle and the Promises," Ensign, May
1996, 18
3/30/06
"The Lord said, 'It is not meet that I should command in all
things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful
and not a wise servant.' (D&C
58:26.) The prophets told us in the Book of Mormon that 'men are
instructed sufficiently that they know good from evil.' (2
Ne. 2:5; see Hel.
14:31.)
"Life is meant to be a test to see if we will keep the commandments of
God. (See 2 Ne. 2:5.)
We are free to obey or to ignore the spirit and the letter of the law.
But the agency granted to man is a moral agency. (See
D&C 101:78.) We are not free to break our covenants and escape
the consequences.
"The laws of God are ordained to make us happy. Happiness cannot coexist
with immorality: the prophet Alma told us in profound simplicity that
'wickedness never was happiness.' (Alma
41:10.)" - Boyd K. Packer, "Covenants,"
Ensign (CR), November 1990, p.84
5/31/06
"We cannot overemphasize the value of temple marriage, the binding ties
of the sealing ordinance, and the standards of worthiness required of
them. When parents keep the covenants they have made at the altar of the
temple, their children will be forever bound to them. President Brigham
Young said:
"'Let the father and mother, who are members of this Church and Kingdom,
take a righteous course, and strive with all their might never to do a
wrong, but to do good all their lives; if they have one child or one
hundred children, if they conduct themselves towards them as they
should, binding them to the Lord by their faith and prayers, I care not
where those children go, they are bound up to their parents by an
everlasting tie, and no power of earth or hell can separate them from
their parents in eternity; they will return again to the fountain from
whence they sprang.' (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation,
comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols., 2:90-91.)" - Boyd K. Packer, "Our
Moral Environment," Ensign (CR), May 1992, p.66
7/22/06
"If you, our youth, feel alone, remember there are millions of you in
the Church now. Tens of thousands of you at this moment serve missions.
You are a visible example, a testimony of the Restoration, even to those
who will not listen to your message. Wherever you are—in school, at work
or play, in the military—you are never alone.
"Now words can be used as weapons against you. If they throw the word
diversity at you, grab hold of it and say, 'I am already diverse,
and I intend to stay diverse.' If the word is tolerance, grab
that one, too, saying, 'I expect you to be tolerant of my
lifestyle—obedience, integrity, abstinence, repentance.' If the word is
choice, tell them you choose good, old-fashioned morality. You
choose to be a worthy husband or wife, a worthy parent.
"The whole Church may stand alone in defense of these standards. But we
are not the first. Moroni, the last of his people, said: 'I even remain
alone. ... I fulfil the commandment of my father.' (Morm.
8:3.) Do not be afraid. (See
2 Tim. 1:7; D&C
68:6.)" - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Standard of Truth Has Been Erected," Ensign (CR), November 2003,
p.24
11/3/06
"Some live with an unspoken fear of what awaits us and the Church in the
world. It grows ever darker in morality and spirituality. If we will
gather into the Church, live the simple principles of the gospel, live
moral lives, keep the Word of Wisdom, tend to our priesthood and other
duties, then we need not live in fear." - Boyd K. Packer, "A
Defense and a Refuge," Ensign, November 2006
11/16/06
"I have long believed that the study of the doctrines of the gospel will
improve behavior quicker than talking about behavior will improve
behavior. The study of behavior is greatly improved when linked to
standards and to values. Practical values, useful in everyday life, are
found in the scriptures and the doctrines they reveal. I will give you
one example: 'We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all
mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the
Gospel.' (A of F 1:3)
"You should learn while you are young that while the Atonement of Christ
applies to humanity in general, the influence of it is individual, very
personal, and very useful. Even to you beginners, an understanding of
the Atonement is of immediate and very practical value in everyday
life." - Boyd K. Packer, "Washed
Clean," Ensign, May 1997
11/23/06
"But there is life beyond the veil. Every thought or word or act we
direct at this sacred work is pleasing to the Lord. Every hour spent on
genealogical research, however unproductive it appears, is worthwhile.
It is pleasing to the Lord. It is our testimony to Him that we accept
the doctrine of the resurrection and the plan of salvation. It draws us
close to those who have gone before. It welds eternal links in family
associations and draws us closer to Him who is our Lord and stands in
the presence of Him who is our Eternal Father." - Boyd K. Packer, The
Holy Temple , p.256
3/6/07
"Fear is the opposite of faith." -
Boyd K. Packer, "Do
Not Fear," Ensign (CR), May 2004, p.77
4/12/07
"Every President of the Church,
except Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, has been sustained in a solemn
assembly in this Tabernacle. And in similar manner, the sustaining
procedure is repeated annually in general conference and duplicated in
every stake and ward and branch as required by revelation.
"The Lord said, 'It shall not be given to any one to go forth to preach
my gospel, or to build up my church, except he be ordained by some one
who has authority, and it is known to the church that he has authority
and has been regularly ordained by the heads of the church' (D&C
42:11).
"In this way, no stranger can come among us and claim to have authority
and attempt to lead the Church astray." - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Spirit of the Tabernacle," General Conference, April 2007
10/11/07
"As General Authorities of the Church, we are just the same as you are,
and you are just the same as we are. You have the same access to the
powers of revelation for your families and for your work and for your
callings as we do.
"It is also true that there is an order to things in the Church. When you are called to an office, you then receive revelation that belongs to that office that would not be given to others.
"No member of the Church is esteemed by the Lord as more or less than any other. It just does not work that way! Remember, He is a father—our Father. The Lord is 'no respecter of persons.'" - Boyd K. Packer, "The Weak and the Simple of the Church ," General Conference, 6 October 2007
1/29/08
"I have noticed that an
increasing number of our leaders and members do not sing the
congregational songs. Perhaps they do not know them or there are not
enough hymnbooks. We should sing the songs of Zion—they
are an essential part of our worship. We must not neglect the hymns nor
the exalted anthems of the Restoration. Read the First Presidency's
introduction in the hymnbook. The Lord said, 'My
soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous
is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their
heads.' (D&C
25:12.) Do not let our sacred music slip away from us, nor allow
secular music to replace it." - Boyd
K. Packer, "Reverence
Invites Revelation,"
Ensign (CR), November 1991, p.21
5/1/08
"It is not possible in words to
describe the contribution, the service, the sacrifice given by the
wives of priesthood leaders all across the world."
- Boyd K. Packer, "The
Twelve," General Conference, April 2008
6/9/08
"In
the battle of life, the adversary takes enormous numbers of prisoners,
and many who know of no way to escape and are pressed into his
service. Every soul confined to a concentration camp of sin and guilt
has a key to the gate. The adversary cannot hold them if they know how
to use it. The key is labeled Repentance. The twin
principles of repentance and forgiveness exceed in strength the
awesome power of the adversary."
- Boyd K. Packer, "Our
Moral Environment," Ensign (CR), May 1992, p.66
6/30/08
"Find
happiness in ordinary things, and keep your sense of humor."
- Boyd K. Packer, "Do Not Fear," Ensign (CR), May 2004, p.77
11/8/08
"If
you can understand a people so long-suffering, so tolerant, so
forgiving, so Christian after what they had suffered, you will have
unlocked the key to what a Latter-day Saint is. Rather than being
consumed with revenge, they were anchored to revelation. Their course
was set by the teachings still found today in the Old and the New
Testaments, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the
Pearl of Great Price.
"If you can understand why they would celebrate as they did, you can understand why we have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, in the principles of the gospel.
"The Book of Mormon teaches, 'We talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.'
"And so today in these strangely perilous times, in the true Church of Jesus Christ we teach and live the principles of His gospel." - Boyd K. Packer, "The Test," General Conference, October 2008
2/15/09
"Keep the Word of Wisdom. Seek worthy companions. Attend church
faithfully. Never fail daily to seek for help through prayer. And I
promise you that the way will be easier and you shall have a composure
of mind and a confident attitude toward life and the future. You shall
be warned of dangers and shall be guided through the whisperings of the
Holy Spirit." - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Word of Wisdom: The Principle
and the Promises," Ensign
(CR), May 1996, p.17
2/19/09
"From my youth I have been acutely interested in and tried to be
observant of everything around us—birds,
animals, and plant life—their
species, forms, colors, characteristics, and habits. I found that we
can, as the Savior did, draw lessons from everyday occurrences. We can
note the behavior of people in all their individuality and sameness. I
developed the desire, as a teacher, to share the things I had observed.
I found that by diligent, consistent observation, notetaking, and
filing, one can store up a vast reservoir of knowledge, examples,
lessons, feelings, experiences, and stories. One can come to know the
verity of the scripture 'treasure
up in your minds continually the words of life, and it shall be given
you in the very hour that portion that shall be meted unto every man.'
(D&C 84:85.) That supply is there whenever one needs to draw from it
for teaching or speaking assignments. Whatever else we are in life, we
are teachers—as parents, in
church service, in all else that we do." - Boyd K. Packer, "That
All May Be Edified," p.
6
7/7/09
“Parents,
take time in the next home evening to caution your family never to
amuse themselves at the expense of the handicapped or of any whose
face or form or personality does not fit the supposed ideal or whose
skin is too light or too dark to suit their fancy. Teach them that
they, in their own way, should become like angels who "move the
water," healing a spirit by erasing loneliness, embarrassment, or
rejection.” - Boyd K. Packer, “The Moving of
the Water,” Ensign (CR), May 1991, p. 7
8/17/09
“An organist who has the sensitivity to quietly play prelude music
from the hymnbook tempers our feelings and causes us to go over in our
minds the lyrics which teach the peaceable things of the kingdom. If
we will listen, they are teaching the gospel, for the hymns of the
Restoration are, in fact, a course in doctrine!” - Boyd K. Packer,
“Reverence Invites Revelation,” Ensign (CR), November 1991, p. 21
8/26/09
“Learn how to pray and how to receive answers to your
prayers. When you pray over some things, you must patiently wait a
long, long time before you will receive an answer. Some prayers, for
your own safety, must be answered immediately, and some promptings
will even come when you haven't prayed at all.” - Boyd
K. Packer, “Spiritual Crocodiles,” Ensign (CR), May 1976, p. 30
12/19/09
“No
Father would send His children off to a distant, dangerous land for a
lifetime of testing where Lucifer was known to roam free without first
providing them with a personal power of protection. He would also
supply them with means to communicate with Him from Father to child
and from child to Father. Every child of our Father sent to earth is
provided with the Spirit of Christ, or the Light of Christ. We are,
none of us, left here alone without hope of guidance and redemption.”
– Boyd K. Packer, “Prayer and Promptings,” Ensign, November 2009
3/3/10
“I
have learned that thoughts, like water, will follow the course if we
make a place for them to go. Otherwise, we may spend all our time
frantically patching up the banks and may find that our ‘turn’ is over
and that we have wasted the day of our probation…” - Boyd
K. Packer, “Memorable Stories and Parables of Boyd K. Packer,” p. 79
3/19/10
“In
today’s world, unless we are on guard, we will join the many people
who are comfort-seekers. We will, thereafter, try to find some place
where there is 72°F. temperature, where we can lie relaxed, with no
effort, be fed, tended, and protected. The Lord never told us that
life was supposed to be easy, comfortable, or convenient. Life is all
upstream. It is all uphill. If we quit the struggle, we will be washed
downstream. We face ahead some narrow places, both as individuals and
as a church. We are ‘shot at’ with criticism and opposition from many
directions.
“If you feel that you must answer every criticism and challenge that comes your way, a single critic or one heckler can occupy your full time. I have learned that there is one place to search for approval and that is up—to be approved of our Lord and of our Heavenly Father.” - Boyd K. Packer, “That All May Be Edified,” p. 249
5/22/10
"There is the natural tendency to look at those who are sustained to
presiding positions, to consider them to be higher and of more value
in the Church or to their families than an ordinary member. Somehow we
feel they are worth more to the Lord than are we. It just does not
work that way!" - Boyd K. Packer, "The Weak
and the Simple of the Church," (CR) November 2007
6/5/10
"Do not be
disappointed if you have read and reread and yet have not received a
powerful witness. You may be somewhat like the disciples spoken of in
the Book of Mormon who were filled with the power of God in great glory
'and they knew it not' (3 Nephi 9:20)." - Boyd
K. Packer, "The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus
Christ—Plain and Precious Things, Ensign (CR), April 2005
6/17/10
"I know of no work in
the Church more conducive to spiritual refinement and communication than
temple and genealogical work. In this work our hearts and our minds are
turned to those beyond the veil. Such a work helps us to sharpen our
spiritual sensitivities." - Boyd K.
Packer, The Holy Temple , p. 241
8/5/10
"It has never been easy
to live the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was not easy when He lived, and
it was not easy in the early days of the Church. The early Saints were
subjected to unspeakable suffering and opposition.
"It has been over 180 years since the priesthood was restored. We now
number nearly 14 million members. Even so, we are a tiny fraction when
compared to the billions of people on earth. But we are who we are, and
we know what we know, and we are to go forth and preach the gospel." - Boyd
K. Packer, "The Power of the Priesthood," Ensign (CR), May 2010
9/27/10
"The old saying 'The Lord is voting for me, and Lucifer is voting
against me, but it is my vote that counts' describes a doctrinal
certainty that our agency is more powerful than the adversary’s will.
Agency is precious. We can foolishly, blindly give it away, but it
cannot be forcibly taken from us.
"There is also an age-old excuse: 'The devil made me do it.' Not so! He
can deceive you and mislead you, but he does not have the power to force
you or anyone else to transgress or to keep you in transgression.” - Boyd
K. Packer, "Cleansing
the Inner Vessel,” Ensign (CR) October 2010
6/21/11
"The stick or record of
Judah—the Old Testament and the New Testament—and the stick or record of
Ephraim—the Book of Mormon, which is another testament of Jesus
Christ—are now woven together in such a way that as you pore over one
you are drawn to the other; as you learn from one you are enlightened by
the other. They are indeed one in our hands. Ezekiel’s prophecy now
stands fulfilled." - Boyd K. Packer,
"Scriptures,"
Ensign (CR) October 1982
7/17/11
"The Lord said that when
we read the revelations to one another, by his power we 'can testify
that you have heard my voice, and know my words.' (D&C
18:35–36.)
These things are the true measure of our progress. Far more important
than counting things we can see are those spiritual things we can feel.
'Search the scriptures,' the Lord has told us, 'for … they are they
which testify of me.' (John
5:39.)" - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Library of the Lord," Ensign (CR) April 1990
8/27/11
If you want your son to play the
piano, it is good to expose him to music. This may give him a feel for
it and help greatly in his learning. But this is not enough. There is
the practice and the memorization and the practice and the practice and
the practice before he can play it well.
If you want your daughter to learn a
language, expose her to those who speak it. She may get a feel for the
language, even pick up many words. But this is not enough. She must
memorize grammar and vocabulary. She must practice pronunciation. There
is rote learning without which she will never speak or write the
language fluently.
So it is with the gospel. One may have
a feel for it. But some time one must learn the doctrine. Here, too,
rote learning, practice, memorization, reading, listening, discussion,
all become essential. There is no royal road to learning. - Boyd K.
Packer, "Agency and Control," Ensign (CR) April 1983
10/12/11
I say again that youth today are
being raised in enemy territory with a declining standard of morality.
But as a servant of the Lord, I promise that you will be protected and
shielded from the attacks of the adversary if you will heed the
promptings that come from the Holy Spirit. - Boyd
K. Packer, "Counsel
to Youth," Ensign (CR) October 2011
11/25/11
Do you realize that the notion that all
churches are equal presupposes that the true church of Jesus Christ
actually does not exist anywhere?
Now, others may insist that this is not the true church. That is their
privilege. But to claim that it does not exist anywhere, that it does
not even need to exist, is to deny the scriptures….
We did not invent the doctrine of the only true church. It came from the
Lord. Whatever perception others have of us, however presumptuous we
appear to be, whatever criticism is directed to us, we must teach it to
all who will listen. - Boyd K.
Packer, "The
Only True Church," Ensign (CR) October 1985
12/13/11
True doctrine,
understood, changes attitudes and behavior.
The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker
than a study of behavior will improve behavior. Preoccupation with
unworthy behavior can lead to unworthy behavior. That is why we stress
so forcefully the study of the doctrines of the gospel. - Boyd K.
Packer, "Little
Children," Ensign (CR) October 2011
4/4/12
One of the great discoveries of parenthood is that we learn far more
about what really matters from our children than we ever did from our
parents. We come to recognize the truth in Isaiah’s prophecy that “a
little child shall lead them.” - Boyd
K. Packer, "And
a Little Child Shall Lead Them," Ensign, (CR) May 2012
6/10/12
In stormy weather there was always static and interference. But the life
of many a pilot has depended on his hearing, above the roar of the
engines and through all the static and interference, that sometimes weak
signal from a distant airfield.
There is a spiritual beam, with a constant signal. If you know how to
pray and how to listen, spiritually listen, you may move through life,
through clear weather, through storms, through wars, through peace, and
be all right. - Boyd K. Packer, "Prayers
and Answers," Ensign (CR) November 1979
8/30/12
Hands we have touched have
touched the hands that shaped the beginnings of this dispensation. - Boyd
K. Packer, "A
Tribute to the Rank and File of the Church," Ensign (CR) May
1980
9/11/12
Except for the Bible, the Book
of Mormon is different from any book you have read. It is not a novel.
It is not fiction. For the most part, it is not difficult to read.
However, like all books of profound value, it is not casual reading. But
if you persist, I assure you that it will be the most rewarding book you
have ever set your mind to read. - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Things of My Soul," Ensign (CR) May 1986
11/24/12
It is a glorious time to live! No matter what trials await us, we can
find the answer to that question, “What shall we do?” We, and those we
love, will be guided and corrected and protected, and we will be
comforted.
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.” - Boyd K. Packer, "The
Cloven Tongues of Fire," Ensign (CR) May 2000
12/20/12
The gospel of Jesus Christ is the formula for success. Every principle
of the gospel, when lived, has a positive influence over your choice of
an occupation and on what you will achieve. The counsel to labor in the
Church has great value. Living the gospel will give you a perspective
and an inspiration that will see you successful however ordinary your
work may be or however ordinary your life may seem to others. - Boyd
K. Packer, "The
Gospel-The Foundation for Our Career," Ensign (CR), May 1982,
p.84
8/26/13
When temptation comes, you can invent a
delete key in your mind—perhaps the words from a favorite hymn. Your
mind is in charge; your body is the instrument of your mind. When some
unworthy thought pushes into your mind, replace it with your delete
key. - Boyd K. Packer, "Prayer
and Promptings," Ensign (CR) November 2009
9/1/13
Surely the Word of Wisdom was given so
that you may keep the delicate, sensitive, spiritual part of your
nature on proper alert. Learn to “listen” to your feelings. You will
be guided and warned and taught and blessed. - Boyd
K. Packer, "The
Word of Wisdom: The Principles and the Promises," Ensign (CR)
May 1996
5/4/14
Of all the other titles that He could
have used, He chose to be called “Father.” The Savior commanded,
“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven” (3
Nephi 13:9; see also Matthew
6:9). His use of the name “Father” is a lesson for all as we
come to understand what it is that matters most in this life. - Boyd
K. Packer, “The
Witness,” Ensign (CR) May 2014
6/17/14
Make scripture reading a part of your
regular routine, and the blessings will follow. There is in the
scriptures a voice of warning, but there is also great nourishment.
If the language of the scriptures at first seems strange to you, keep
reading. Soon you will come to recognize the beauty and power found on
those pages. - Boyd K. Packer, “The
Key to Spiritual Protection,” Ensign (CR) November 2013
9/2/14
The more I have to do with genealogical
work, the more difficulty I have with that word dead. I know of no
adequate substitute. I suppose departed would suit me as well as any.
I have had too many sacred experiences, of the kind of which we never
speak lightly, to feel that the word dead describes those who have
gone beyond the veil. - Boyd K.
Packer, “Covenants,”
Ensign (CR) May 1987
9/20/14
If our view is limited to mortal life,
some things become unbearable because they seem so unfair and so
permanent. There are doctrines which, if understood, will bring a
perspective toward and a composure regarding problems which otherwise
have no satisfactory explanation. - Boyd
K. Packer, “The
Moving of the Water,” Ensign (CR) May 1991
10/7/14
The Savior wrought the Atonement, which
provides a way for us to become clean. Jesus Christ is the resurrected
Christ. We worship and recognize Him for the pain He suffered for us
collectively and for the pain He endured for each of us individually,
both in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the cross. He bore all with
great humility and with an eternal understanding of His divine role
and purpose. - Boyd K. Packer, “The
Reason for Our Hope,” Ensign (CR) November 2014
11/3/14
Parents now are concerned about the moral and spiritual diseases.
These can have terrible complications when standards and values are
abandoned. We must all take protective measures. - Boyd
K. Packer, “Do
Not Fear,” Ensign, April 2004
11/6/14
Paul and others warned about the trials
of our time and the days yet to come. But peace can be settled in the
heart of each who turns to the scriptures and unlocks the promises of
protection and redemption that are taught therein. We invite all to
turn to the Savior Jesus Christ, to His teachings as found in the Old
Testament, the New Testament, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and
Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. - Boyd
K. Packer, “The
Key to Spiritual Protection,” Ensign (CR) November 2013
12/10/14
Children are the past, the present, and
the future all blended into one. They are consummately precious. Every
time a child is born, the world is renewed in innocence. - Boyd
K. Packer, “Children,”
Ensign (CR) April 2002
2/5/15
To be a fellow citizen with the saints
has great meaning. All can receive that citizenship through the
ordinance of baptism, if they will—if they will repent and prepare
themselves. Then, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, they never need be alone. - Boyd
K. Packer, “The
Saints Securely Dwell,” Ensign (CR) October 1972
2/12/15
Keep the fire of your testimony of the
restored gospel and your witness of our Redeemer burning so brightly
that our children can warm their hands by the fire of your faith. That
is what grandfathers and grandmothers are to do! - Boyd
K. Packer, “The
Golden Years,” Ensign (CR) April 2003
2/13/15
We face the challenge of raising
families in the world in darkening clouds of wickedness. Some of our
members are unsettled, and sometimes they wonder: Is there any place
one can go to escape from it all? Is there another town or a state or
a country where it is safe, where one can find refuge? The answer
generally is no. The defense and the refuge is where our members now
live. - Boyd K. Packer, “A
Defense and a Refuge,” Ensign (CR) October 2006
4/8/15
Nowhere is the generosity and mercy of God more manifest than in
repentance. - Boyd K. Packer, “The
Plan of Happiness,” Ensign (CR) April 2015
10/4/15
This practice of raising hands to
sustain one who has been called to lead or to teach in the Church is a
matter of sacred importance. The voting to sustain takes place in
meetings, and the sustaining of the First Presidency, now broadcast to
the Church across the world, conforms to a revelation from the Lord.
"I say unto you, that it shall not be given to any one to go forth to
preach my gospel, or to build up my church, except he be ordained by …
one who has authority, and it is known to the church that he has
authority and has been regularly ordained by the heads of the church"
(D&C
42:11; emphasis added). - Boyd
K. Packer, "The
Shield of Faith," Ensign (CR), May 1995, p. 7
2/20/16
Remember that soothing, calming effect
of reading the scriptures. Next time you are where they are read,
notice how things settle down. Sense the feeling of peace and security
that comes. - Boyd K. Packer, "Solving
Emotional Problems in the Lord's Own Way," Ensign (CR), May
1978, p.91
4/3/16
Whatever
happens in the world, whatever heights of civility or depths of
depravity emerge in society, the plan remains unaltered. The Church
will grow until it fills the whole earth. - Boyd
K. Packer, "The
Bishop and His Counselors," Ensign (CR), May 1999, p.57
6/12/16
This crisis of the family is no surprise to the Church. We have
certainly known what was coming. I know of no better testimony that we
are led by prophets than our preparation for this present emergency. …
We can only imagine where we would be if we were just now reacting to
this terrible redefinition of the family. But that is not the case. We
are not casting frantically about trying to decide what to do. We know
what to do and what to teach. – Boyd
K. Packer, “The
Father and the Family,” Ensign (CR) April 1994, pp.24-25
12/21/16
In the battle of life, the adversary takes enormous numbers of
prisoners, and many who know of no way to escape and are pressed into
his service. Every soul confined to a concentration camp of sin and
guilt has a key to the gate. The adversary cannot hold them if they know
how to use it. The key is labeled Repentance. The twin principles of
repentance and forgiveness exceed in strength the awesome power of the
adversary.
I
know of no sins connected with the moral standard for which we cannot be
forgiven. I do not exempt abortion. The formula is stated in forty
words:
“Behold,
he
who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the
Lord,remember them no more.
“By
this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess
them and forsake them.” (D&C
58:42–43.) – Boyd K.
Packer, “Our
Moral
Enviornment,” Ensign (CR) May 1992
2/4/17
Temptations are ever present. Because the adversary cannot beget life,
he is jealous toward all who have that supernal power. He and those
who followed him were cast out and forfeited the right to a mortal
body. “He seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself” (2
Nephi 2:27). He will tempt, if he can, to degrade, to corrupt,
and, if possible, to destroy this gift by which we may, if we are
worthy, have eternal increase (see D&C
132:28–31). – Boyd
K. Packer, “The
Plan of Happiness,” Ensign (CR) May 2015
2/20/17
The central purpose of the Book of Mormon is its testament of Jesus
Christ. Of more than 6,000 verses in the Book of Mormon, far more than
half refer directly to Him.
So, “we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we
prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our
children may know to what source they may look for a remission of
their sins” (2
Ne. 25:26).
The Book of Mormon is an endless treasure of wisdom and inspiration,
of counsel and correction, “adapted to the capacity of the weak and
the weakest [among us]” (D&C
89:3). At once, it is rich in nourishment for the most learned,
if they will humble themselves (see 2
Ne. 9:28–29). – Boyd
K. Packer, “The
Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ—Plain and Precious
Things,” Ensign (CR) May 2005
