The LDS Daily WOOL Home Page
(10/12/99)
"Spiritual death is more likely when goals are unbalanced toward
things physical." - Russell M. Nelson,¯ General Conference, April 1992
(10/13/99)
"Trees reach up for the light and grow in the process. So do we as
sons and daughters of heavenly parents. Facing upward provides a
loftier perspective than facing right or facing left. Looking up in
search of holiness builds strength and dignity as disciples of Deity."
- Russell
M. Nelson,¯ General Conference, April 1996
(10/14/99)
"In order to experience true joy in the morning, or at any time, at
least three factors are needed. You need to feel good about the people
with whom you live and work - your companions in life. You must feel
good about yourself - not in any sense of conceit, but simply a proper
esteem for yourself, well deserved. And possibly most important, you
must feel good about your relation to God and sincerely love Him." - Russell
M. Nelson,¯ General Conference, October 1986
(10/15/99)
"What happens without spiritual learning? What happens to the pilot of
a glider when he is cut loose from the power of his tow plane? There
may be banks and turns, but ultimately there is only one direction he
can go, and that is down! We must gain learning, but we must apply it
wisely. Otherwise, we have politics without principle, industry
without morality, knowledge without wisdom, science without humanity!"
- Russell
M. Nelson,¯ "Protect the Spiritual Power Line,"
General Conference, October 1984
(10/16/99)
"How is it possible to achieve the 'impossible'? Learn and obey the
teachings of God. From the holy scriptures, heaven-sent lift will be
found for heaven-sent duties." - Russell
M. Nelson,¯ "With God Nothing Shall Be Impossible,"
General Conference, April 1988
(4/18/01)
"Let us be wise and keep away from temptations and snares. Let us
cautiously avoid 'foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in
destruction and perdition.' Let us 'flee these things; and follow
after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.' Let
us 'fight the good fight of faith' and 'lay hold on eternal life' (1
Tim. 6:9, 11:12)." - Russell
M. Nelson,¯ Russell M. Nelson "The
Magnificence
of Man," New Era, Oct. 1987, p. 50
(7/8/01)
"Agency, or the power to choose, was ours as spirit children of our
Creator before the world was. (See Alma
13:3; Moses 4:4.)
It is a gift from God, nearly as precious as life itself." -¯ Russell
M. Nelson, "Addiction
or
Freedom," "Ensign," Nov. 1988, p. 7
(2/19/02)
"This modern dispensation of which I speak fulfills the biblical
promise of a 'restitution of all things' (Acts
3:21; see also Rev.
14:6,
7). It also fulfills another scriptural promise that 'the Lord
doth grant unto all nations, of their own nation and tongue, to teach
his word' (Alma 29:8).
We believe in the restitution of the same organization that once
existed in the early Christian Church, with Apostles, prophets, and
teachers (see A of F
1:6). Our origins did not spring from protest of any kind;
hence, we are not a Protestant denomination. Rather, we understand
that the church of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth,
established, as the Apostle Paul once declared, 'upon the foundation
of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief
corner stone' (Eph.
2:20)." - Russell M. Nelson, "Combating
Spiritual Drift—Our Global Pandemic," Ensign,
Nov. 1993, p. 104
(3/24/02)
"The lineage of Joseph, through Ephraim and Manasseh, is the seed
appointed to lead in the gathering of Israel. The pioneers
knew--through their patriarchal blessings and the Old Testament,
amplified by scriptures and revelations of the Restoration--that the
long-awaited gathering of Israel was to commence with them. This
'ball' was in their court!" -¯ Russell M. Nelson, "The
Exodus
Repeated," Ensign, July 1999, p. 12
(3/30/02)
"Inspiration has prepared the way from the beginning, when the Lord
impressed the Prophet Joseph Smith to compose the twelfth article of
faith: 'We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and
magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.' This
inspired statement was surely written for our day. The Prophet knew
that the gospel was ultimately to be taken to all nations regardless
of their governmental differences. He knew that the ordinances of
salvation and exaltation could bless the lives of people regardless of
their politics. And he knew that people who were taught correct
principles and who were loyal to their civil leaders and observing of
their local laws would be most able to enjoy the blessings of the
gospel." - Russell M. Nelson, "Drama
on
the European Stage," Ensign, Dec. 1991, p. 7
(8/06/02)
"Worthy music, dance, art, and writing are among the creative
activities that can enrich the soul. A good hobby can dispel heartache
and give zest to life." -¯ Russell M. Nelson, "Perfection Pending, and
Other Favorite Discourses," Deseret Book Co., p. 14
3/11/03
"Nephi said, 'I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for
our profit and learning.' (1
Nephi 19:23.) He was advising us to weave the fiber of
scriptural wisdom into the fabric of our own being." -¯ Russell M.
Nelson, "The Power within Us," [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co.,
1988], p. 29
(5/20/03)
"Why are you seeking a higher education? At least two great reasons
emerge. One: You are to learn in your youth to keep the commandments
of God. There is no other way you can achieve your divine destiny. A
prophet said: 'As you have commenced in your youth to look to the Lord
your God, even so I hope that you will continue in keeping his
commandments; for blessed is he that endureth to the end. (Alma
38:2)' Reason number two: Learn wisdom so that you can render
significant service of worth to your fellowmen. How frustrating it
would be to have desire only and little or no ability to help people.
Prepare your minds and your hands so that you can qualify to serve
people and bless their lives. Gain competence that others do not have.
That takes work-it takes effort-but it is worth the price." -¯ Russell
M. Nelson, "Perfection Pending, and Other Favorite Discourses," [Salt
Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1998], p. 209
(6/05/03)
"Contention existed before the earth was formed. When God's plan for
creation and mortal life on the earth was first announced, sons and
daughters of God shouted for joy. The plan was dependent on man's
agency, his subsequent fall from the presence of God, and the merciful
provision of a Savior to redeem mankind. Scriptures reveal that
Lucifer sought vigorously to amend the plan by destroying the agency
of man.... Th[e] war in heaven was not a war of bloodshed. It was a
war of conflicting ideas-the beginning of contention." -¯ Russell M.
Nelson, "Perfection Pending, and Other Favorite Discourses," [Salt
Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1998], p. 57
(7/8/03)
"Simple words—and not much temptation to break this commandment, you
may add. But to clarify, in our day the Lord added, 'Thou shalt not...
kill, nor do anything like unto it.' (D&C 59:6) Do you think he
could foresee our time, when mankind would disregard reverence for
life and authorize abortion on a massive scale throughout the world?
Of course he could. That is why he warned us again. Few acts could
bring guilt and sorrow quite so surely as the shedding of innocent
blood, regardless of the age of the victim. We need this counsel
today, perhaps more than ever before." -- Russell M. Nelson, "The
Power within Us," [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1988], p. 129
(8/11/03)
"Yes, compounds derived from dust—¯elements of the earth—¯are combined
to make each living cell in our bodies. This is one of the marvels of
our creation. Likewise, it will be one of the marvels of our
resurrection. The miracle of the resurrection is matched only by the
miracle of our creation in the first place. No one knows precisely how
two germ cells unite to make one. Nor do we know how that resulting
cell multiplies and divides to make others—¯some to become eyes that
see, ears that hear, or fingers that feel glorious things about us.
Each cell contains chromosomes with thousands of genes, chemically
ensuring the identity and independence of each individual. Our bodies
undergo constant rebuilding according to genetic recipes that are
uniquely ours. Each time we take a bath, we lose not only dirt but
also cells dead and dying, as they are replaced by a newer crop. This
process of regeneration and renewal is but prelude to the promised
phenomenon and future fact of our resurrection." -¯ Russell M. Nelson,
"The Gateway We Call Death," [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1995],
p. 83
(8/13/03)
"This great priesthood power of resurrection is vested in the Lord of
this world. He taught, 'All power is given unto me in heaven and in
earth.' (Matthew 28:18) Though he supplicated his Father for aid at
the eleventh hour, the final victory over death was earned by the Son.
These are his words: 'Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay
down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me,
but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have
power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my
Father.' (John 10:17-18) This power he subtly proclaimed when he told
the Jews: 'Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.
. . . But he spake of the temple of his body.' (John 2:19, 21) The
keys of the resurrection repose securely with our Lord and Master. He
said: 'I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me,
though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and
believeth in me shall never die.' (John 11:25-26.)" -¯ Russell M.
Nelson, "The Power within Us," [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co.,
1988], p. 147
(10/27/03)
"To magnify your callings in the Aaronic Priesthood, you young men
should shape your personal efforts toward five personal objectives to:
1) Gain a knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
2) Be worthy of missionary service.
3) Keep yourself morally clean and qualified to enter the holy temple.
4) Pursue your personal education.
5) Uphold Church standards and be worthy of your future companion.
How can you remember those five objectives? It's easy. Look at your
hand. Let your pointer finger point to the scriptures. From them gain
a better knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and then live in
accord with His teachings. Let your middle finger remind you to be
worthy of missionary service. Let your ring finger remind you of
marriage, endowment, sealing, and blessings of the temple. Let your
end finger remind you that pursuit of an education is a religious
responsibility. Let your thumb go up, reminding you to uphold the
standards of the Church and be worthy of your eternal companion. The
realization of these five objectives will bless your lives." - Russell
M. Nelson, "Personal
Priesthood
Responsibility," General Conference, 4 October 2003
(12/11/03)
"To me, the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon is most evident in the
mighty change that comes into the lives of those who read it 'with a
sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ.' (Moro.
10:4.) Many of them forsake much that they held dear to be true
to their new commitment to abide by the precepts of that book. The
Book of Mormon truly is a treasured testament. There is no other book
quite like it. Can you find any other book delivered by an angel? Can
you think of any other book prepared for people to read centuries
later? Its writers did not write it for readers of their day. No
royalties accrued to its authors from sales to contemporary consumers.
In fact, its authors paid dearly for their privilege of authorship, as
did its translator." - Russell M. Nelson, "A
Treasured Testament," Ensign, July 1993, p. 65
(1/11/04)
"Your responsibility to endure is uniquely yours. But you are never
alone. I testify that the lifting power of the Lord can be yours if
you will 'come unto Christ' and 'be perfected in him.' You will 'deny
yourselves of all ungodliness.' And you will 'love God with all your
might, mind and strength.' (Moro.
10:32)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Endure
and
Be Lifted Up," General Conference, April 1997
(3/14/04)
"Keeping the garden of marriage well cultivated and free from weeds of
neglect requires the time and commitment of love. It is not only a
pleasant privilege, it is a scriptural requirement with promise of
eternal glory. (See Eph.
5:25,
33; Col. 3:19;
1 Pet. 3:1; Jacob
3:7; D&C
132:19)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Listen
to
Learn," Ensign, May 1991, p. 23
(4/14/04)
"The home is the great laboratory of love. There the raw chemicals of
selfishness and greed are melded in the crucible of cooperation to
yield compassionate concern and love one for another. (See Mosiah
4:14-15; D&C
68:25-31)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Our
Sacred
Duty to Honor Women," Ensign, May 1999, p. 40
(4/28/04)
"Carefully listen to learn from the Lord through the still small
voice-the Holy Spirit-which leads to truth. (See 1
Kgs. 19:12; 1
Ne. 17:45; D&C
85:6.) Listen to learn by studying scriptures that record His
holy mind and will. (See John
5:39; Alma 14:1;
Alma 33:2.) Listen
to learn in prayer, for He will answer the humble who truly seek Him.
(See Mosiah 9:18;
Mosiah 23:10;
Alma 9:26; D&C
19:23; D&C
112:10; Abr.
2:19; JS-H,
footnote, para. 5, p. 59.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Listen
to
Learn," Ensign, May 1991, pp. 24-25
(5/6/04)
"Personal roots, physical and spiritual, merit gratitude. For my life,
I am grateful to my Creator as well as to my dear parents and
progenitors. I try to honor them by learning of them and serving them
in the temple. (See D&C
128:15.) Parents have a responsibility to share knowledge of
their personal roots with their children and grandchildren. Learning
their history together unifies a family." - Russell M. Nelson, "Roots
and
Branches," General Conference, April 2004
(6/8/04)
"Resurrection is requisite for eternal perfection. Thanks to the
atonement of Jesus Christ, our bodies, corruptible in mortality, will
become incorruptible. Our physical frames, now subject to disease,
death, and decay, will acquire immortal glory. (See Alma
11:45; D&C
76:64—70.) Presently sustained by the blood of life (See Lev.
17:11.) and ever aging, our bodies will be sustained by spirit
and become changeless and beyond the bounds of death. (LDS Bible
Dictionary, s.v. 'resurrection': 'A resurrection means to become
immortal, without blood, yet with a body of flesh and bone.')" -
Russell M. Nelson, "Perfection
Pending," Ensign, November 1995, p. 87
(6/16/04)
"I learned long ago that a period of uninterrupted scriptural study in
the morning brings enduring enrichment. I feel as did Jeremiah: 'Thy
word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart' (Jer.
15:16). Sacred scriptures have been repeatedly described as
'glad tidings of great joy' (Hel.
16:14; Mosiah
3:3; Alma
13:22; see also Luke
2:10). As we learn and abide their teachings, that joy becomes
part of our lives." - Russell M. Nelson, "Joy
Cometh
in the Morning," Ensign, November 1986, p. 69
(7/5/04)
"Upon our shoulders lies the responsibility to keep the faith through
our own generation. This 'ball' is now in our court! We of modern
Israel are destined to be 'a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation' (Ex.
19:6). We know that we are children of the covenant (see Acts
3:25; 3
Ne. 20:25-26). We are remnants of the seed now to be gathered
and gleaned into God's eternal garners (see Alma
26:5)." - Russell M. Nelson, "The
Exodus
Repeated," Ensign, July 1999, p. 13
(7/12/04)
"Scriptures certify that the priesthood has continued and will
continue 'through the lineage of [the] fathers' (D&C
86:8. See also D&C
84:6-17; D&C
107:40; Abr.
1:2-4.) Ordination to its offices has timeless implication as
well. Tenure in priesthood office may extend into postmortal realms.
For example, scriptures declare that one ordained as a high priest may
be a high priest forever. (See Alma
13:9, 14.) Promised blessings of the priesthood extend to men,
women, and children throughout the world and may endure forever. (See
Gen. 17:1-7; Gen.
22:16-18; Gen.
26:3-4; Gen.
28:13-14; Isa.
2:2-3; 1 Ne.
15:18; Alma
29:8; D&C
124:58; D&C
132:47; Abr.
2:11.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Constancy
amid
Change," Ensign, November 1993, p. 35
(7/19/04
"We know that there is an opposition in all things. (See 2
Ne. 2:10-11, 15.) Not surprisingly, therefore, faith, hope, and
charity have their opposing forces. As illustrated in the letter from
which I read, the antithesis of faith (For descriptions of faith, see
Heb. 11:1; Alma
32:21.) is doubt; the opposite of hope is despair. And the
opposite of charity is disregard or even disdain for the Savior and
his commandments." - Russell M. Nelson, "A
More Excellent Hope," Ensign, February 1997, p. 61
(7/24/04)
"Faith can be fortified through prayer. Prayer is the powerful key to
making decisions, not only concerning your physical body, but
concerning all other important aspects of your life. Humbly seek the
Lord in prayer with a sincere heart and real intent, and He will help
you. (See Alma
33:23; Moro. 7:9;
Moro. 10:4; D&C
9:7-9.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Choices,"
Ensign,
November 1990, p. 75
11/20/04
"Paul's warnings describe apostasy and other dangers of our day. Some
of these perils are contrary to God's purposes and are championed by
persuasive people possessing more ability than morality, more
knowledge than wisdom. Their rationalization breeds justification. The
Bible affirms that the 'way of a fool is right in his own eyes.' (Prov.
12:15.) Indeed, individuals with malignity of purpose often wear
the mask of honesty. So we must constantly be on guard." - Russell
M. Nelson, "Where
Is
Wisdom?" Ensign, Nov. 1992, p. 8
(11/28/04)
"... the kingdom of God is governed by the authority of the
priesthood. It is not conferred for honor, but for a ministry of
service. Priesthood titles are not created by man; neither are they
for adornment, nor do they express mastership. They denote appointment
to service in the work of the Lord. We are called, sustained, and
ordained-not by ourselves, but "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; see also Heb.
5:4.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Honoring
the
Priesthood," Ensign, May 1993, p. 38
(4/9/05)
"Happiness comes when scriptures are used in shaping our lives. They
speak of the 'brightness of hope' (2
Ne. 31:20) for which we yearn. But if our hopes were narrowly
confined only to moments in mortality, we should surely be
disappointed. Our ultimate hope must be anchored to the Atonement of
the Lord Jesus Christ. He said, 'If you keep my commandments and
endure to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the
greatest of all the gifts of God.' (D&C
14:7)" - Russell M. Nelson, "A
More Excellent Hope," Ensign, Feb. 1997, p. 63
(4/14/05)
"Trials and tests apply to rich and poor alike. Years ago, I was asked
to perform an operation upon a very wealthy man. A surgical biopsy
confirmed that he had an advanced cancer that had spread throughout
his body. As I reported this news, his immediate response was to rely
upon his wealth. He would go anywhere or do anything to treat his
condition. He thought he could buy his way back to health. But he soon
passed away. Someone asked, 'How much wealth did he leave?' The
answer, of course, was, 'All of it!'
"His priorities were set upon things of the world. His ladder of
success had been leaning against the wrong wall. I think of him when I
read this scripture: 'Behold, your days of probation are past; ye have
procrastinated the day of your salvation until it is... too late.' (Hel.
13:38)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Now
Is
the Time to Prepare," General Conference, April 2005
(6/3/05)
"Jesus, our Savior, was born in the
lowliest of circumstances. For his baptism he was immersed in the
lowest body of fresh water upon the planet. In service and
suffering, he also 'descended below' all things (D&C
122:8), that he could rise above all things. Near the end of
his life, he triumphantly declared, 'I have overcome the world.' (John
16:33.) 'Look unto me, and endure to the end, and ye shall
live; for unto him that endureth to the end will I give eternal
life.' (3 Ne. 15:9.)
Scriptures tutor us at least twenty-six times** to endure to the end
to attain eternal life. Then we will obtain a resurrected body—¯one
that is incorruptible, glorified, and prepared to live in the
presence of God.
"To reach your highest destiny, emulate the Savior. He proclaimed,
'What manner of men ought ye to be?... Even as I am.' (3
Ne. 27:27.) Our loftiest hope is to grow in spirit and attain
'the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more
children.' (Eph.
4:13-14.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Self-Mastery,"
Ensign,
Nov. 1985, 32
**Matt. 10:22;
Matt. 24:13;
Mark 13:13;
1 Ne. 13:37;
1 Ne. 22:31;
2 Ne. 9:24; 2
Ne. 31:15-16, 20; 2
Ne. 33:4; Omni
1:26; Alma
32:13, 15; Alma
38:2; 3 Ne.
15:9; 3
Ne. 27:6, 16-17; Morm.
9:29; Moro.
8:26; D&C
10:69; D&C
14:7; D&C
18:22; D&C
20:25; D&C
20:29; D&C
53:7.
1/4/06
"Now is the time to align our goals with God's goals. His work and His
glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man' (Moses
1:39)—¯can become ours. Of temple marriage the Savior declared,
'If a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law, and by the new and
everlasting covenant,... [they] shall inherit thrones, kingdoms,
principalities, and powers, dominions,... exaltation and glory in all
things.' (D&C
132:19) We are to emulate the example of the Lord, to love as He
did, to pray as He did, and to endure to the end as He did. (2
Ne. 33:4)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Now
Is
the Time to Prepare," Ensign (CR), April 2005
1/20/06
"Peace can prevail only when that natural inclination to fight is
superseded by self-determination to live on a loftier level. Coming unto
Jesus Christ as the 'Prince of Peace' (Isa.
9:6.) is the pathway to peace on earth and goodwill among men.
(See Luke 2:14.)
He made a promise to us: 'Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be
called the children of God.' (Matt.
5:9; see also 3
Ne. 12:9; Joseph
Smith Translation, Matt. 5:11.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Blessed
Are
the Peacemakers," Ensign (CR), November 2002, p.39
3/13/06
"The Savior and His servants (See
D&C 1:38.) do not speak words of complacency but teach what
people need to know. Through the ages, history attests that contemporary
critics have pressed Church leaders to modify a decree of the Lord. (For
examples, see 1 Sam.
8:4-7; Matt.
7:21; Luke 6:46;
3 Ne. 14:21.) But
such is eternal law, and it cannot be altered. Not even for His Beloved
Son could God change the law that required the Atonement. Divine
doctrines cannot be squeezed into compact molds to make them fit
fashionable patterns of the day. Nor can they be fully expressed on a
bumper sticker." - Russell M. Nelson, "Constancy
amid
Change," Ensign (CR), November 1993, p.33
4/6/06
"'Thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.' (D&C
115:4.)
"Note carefully the language of the Lord. He did not say, 'Thus shall my
church be named.' He said, 'Thus shall my church be called.' Years ago,
its members were cautioned by the Brethren who wrote: 'We feel that some
may be misled by the too frequent use of the term 'Mormon
Church.'' (Member-Missionary Class—¯Instructors Guide, Salt Lake
City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1982, p. 2.)
Before any other name is considered to be a legitimate substitute, the
thoughtful person might reverently consider the feelings of the Heavenly
Parent who bestowed that name.
"Surely every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord is precious.
So each word in this name must be important—¯divinely designated for a
reason. If we study the key words in that name, we can better understand
the names full significance." - Russell M. Nelson, "Thus
Shall
My Church Be Called," Ensign (CR), May 1990, p.16
5/7/06
"We need not be dismayed if our earnest efforts toward perfection now
seem so arduous and endless. Perfection is pending. It can come in full
only after the Resurrection and only through the Lord. It awaits all who
love him and keep his commandments. It includes thrones, kingdoms,
principalities, powers, and dominions. (See D&C
132:19.) It is the end for which we are to endure. (Matt.
10:22; Matt.
24:13; Mark
13:13.) It is the eternal perfection that God has in store for
each of us." - Russell M. Nelson, "Perfection
Pending," Ensign (CR), November 1995, p.86
9/12/06
"Because of our sacred regard for each human intellect, we consider the
obtaining of an education to be a religious responsibility. Yet
opportunities and abilities differ. I believe that in the pursuit of
education, individual desire is more influential than institution, and
personal faith more forceful than faculty.
"Our Creator expects His children everywhere to educate themselves. He
issued a commandment: 'Seek ye diligently and teach one another words of
wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek
learning, even by study and also by faith.' (D&C
88:118.) And He assures us that knowledge acquired here will be
ours forever. (See D&C
130:18-19.)
"Measured by this celestial standard, it is apparent that those who
impulsively drop out and cut short their education not only disregard
divine decree but frustrate the realization of their own potential." -
Russell M. Nelson, "Where
Is
Wisdom?," Ensign (CR), November 1992, p.6
9/28/06
"When we pray, we should not presume to give counsel but should inquire
of the Lord [The Lord said, 'If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive
revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge' (D&C
42:61.) The Lord explained that 'you must study it out in your
mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will
cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel
that it is right. But if it be not right you shall have no such
feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought' (D&C
9:8-9).] and hearken to His counsel. Joseph Smith's first prayer
ushered in the Restoration of the gospel. In 1833, he received the Word
of Wisdom after asking the Lord for counsel. The revelation on the
priesthood received in 1978 by President Spencer W. Kimball came after
intense inquiry. Inspiration regarding the construction of smaller
temples came after the pondering of President Gordon B. Hinckley." -
Russell M. Nelson, "Where
Is
Wisdom?" Ensign, November 1992, 6
10/2/06
"... relationships with neighbors, friends, and associates will be
enhanced as we approach them with 'the pure love of Christ'. (Moro.
7:47.) A desire to emulate the Lord provides powerful motivation
for good. Our craving for compassion will cause us to act in accord with
the Golden Rule. (Matt.
7:12) By so doing, we will find joy in feeding the poor, clothing
the naked, or doing volunteer work of worth.
"Service to neighbors takes on new stature when we first look to God. In
the Church, when priesthood and auxiliary leaders face their
congregations, quorums, and classes as would the Lord, they learn that
it does not matter where they serve, but how. Position in the Church
does not exalt anyone, but faithfulness does. On the other hand,
aspiring to a visible position—¯striving to become a master rather than
a servant—¯can destroy the spirit of the worker and the work." - Russell
M. Nelson, "Thou
Shalt
Have No Other Gods," Ensign (CR), May 1996, p.14
11/1/06
"This doctrine of the gathering is one of the important teachings of The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Lord has declared: 'I
give unto you a sign ... that I shall gather in, from their long
dispersion, my people, O house of Israel, and shall establish again
among them my Zion.' (3
Ne. 21:1) The coming forth of the Book of Mormon is a sign to the
entire world that the Lord has commenced to gather Israel and fulfill
covenants He made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We not only teach this
doctrine, but we participate in it. We do so as we help to gather the
elect of the Lord on both sides of the veil.
"The Book of Mormon is central to this work. It declares the doctrine of
the gathering. It causes people to learn about Jesus Christ, to believe
His gospel, and to join His Church. In fact, if there were no Book of
Mormon, the promised gathering of Israel would not occur." - Russell M.
Nelson, "The
Gathering
of Scattered Israel," Ensign, November 2006
12/15/06
"The hope of the world is the Prince of Peace—¯our Creator, Savior,
Jehovah, and Judge. He offers us the good life, the abundant life, and
eternal life. Peaceful—even prosperous—¯living can come to those who
abide His precepts and follow His pathway to peace. This I declare to
all the world." - Russell M. Nelson, "Blessed
Are
the Peacemakers," Ensign (CR), November 2002, p.39
3/1/07
"Development of the spirit is of eternal consequence. The attributes by
which we shall be judged one day are those of the spirit. These include
the virtues of integrity, compassion, love, and more. (D&C
4:6) Your spirit, by being housed in your body, is able to develop
and express these attributes in ways that are vital to your eternal
progression. (See 2
Ne. 2:11-16, 21-26; Moro.
10:33-34.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "We
Are
Children of God," Ensign (CR), November 1998, p.85
4/1/07
"Loyalty to the Lord carries an obligation of loyalty to those called by
the Lord to lead His Church. He has empowered that men be ordained to
speak in His holy name. (See D&C
1:38; D&C 21:5;
D&C 68:4.) As they
guide His unsinkable boat safely toward the shore of salvation, we would
do well to stay on board with them. (See
Acts 27:30-31; 1
Ne. 18:21-23.) No waters can swallow the ship where lies / The
Master of ocean and earth and skies. ('Master,
the
Tempest Is Raging,' Hymns, no. 105.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Endure
and
Be Lifted Up," Ensign (CR), May 1997, p.70
5/5/07
"The doctrine of repentance is
much broader than a dictionary's definition. When Jesus said 'repent,'
His disciples recorded that command in the Greek language with the
verb metanoeo. This powerful word has great significance. In
this word, the prefix meta means 'change.' The suffix relates to four
important Greek terms: nous, meaning 'the mind'; gnosis,
meaning 'knowledge'; pneuma, meaning 'spirit'; and pnoe,
meaning 'breath.'
"Thus, when Jesus said 'repent,' He asked us to change—¯to change our
mind, knowledge, and spirit—¯even our breath. A prophet explained that
such a change in one's breath is to breathe with grateful
acknowledgment of Him who grants each breath. King Benjamin said, 'If
ye should serve him who has created you... and is preserving you from
day to day, by lending you breath... from one moment to another—¯I
say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be
unprofitable servants.'
"Yes, the Lord has commanded us to repent, to change our ways, to come
unto Him, and be more like Him. This requires a total change. Alma so
taught his son: 'Learn wisdom in thy youth,' he said. 'Learn in thy
youth to keep the commandments of God.... Let all thy thoughts be
directed unto the Lord; yea, let the affections of thy heart be placed
upon the Lord forever.'" - Russell M. Nelson, "Repentance
and
Conversion," General Conference, April 2007
7/24/07
"Only the comprehension of the true Fatherhood of God can bring full
appreciation of the true brotherhood of man. That understanding
inspires desire to build bridges of cooperation instead of walls of
segregation." - Russell M. Nelson, "Teach
Us Tolerance and Love," Ensign (CR), May
1994, p.69
8/12/07
"When comparing one's personal performance with the supreme standard
of the Lord's expectation, the reality of imperfection can at times be
depressing. My heart goes out to conscientious Saints who, because of
their shortcomings, allow feelings of depression to rob them of
happiness in life.
"We all need to remember: men are that they might have joy—¯not guilt
trips! (2
Ne. 2:25.)" - Russell M. Nelson, "Perfection
Pending," Ensign (CR),
November 1995, p.86
10/23/07
"The Bible and the Book of Mormon are both
witnesses of Jesus Christ. They teach that He is the Son of God,
that He lived an exemplary life, that He atoned for all mankind,
that He died upon the cross and rose again as the resurrected Lord.
They teach that He is the Savior of the world.
"Scriptural witnesses authenticate each other. This concept was explained long ago when a prophet wrote that the Book of Mormon was 'written for the intent that ye may believe [the Bible]; and if ye believe [the Bible] ye will believe [the Book of Mormon] also.' Each book refers to the other. Each book stands as evidence that God lives and speaks to His children by revelation to His prophets.
"Love for the Book of Mormon expands one's love for the Bible and vice versa. Scriptures of the Restoration do not compete with the Bible; they complement the Bible. We are indebted to martyrs who gave their lives so that we could have the Bible. It establishes the everlasting nature of the gospel and of the plan of happiness. The Book of Mormon restores and underscores biblical doctrines such as tithing, the temple, the Sabbath day, and the priesthood." - Russell M. Nelson, "Scriptural Witnesses ," General Conference, 6 October 2007
4/12/08
"The development of faith in the
Lord is an individual matter. Repentance is also an individual matter.
Only as an individual can one be baptized and receive the Holy Ghost.
Each of us is born individually; likewise, each of us is 'born
again' (John
3:3, 7; Mosiah
27:25; Alma
5:49; 7:14;
Moses
6:59.) individually. Salvation is an individual
matter." - Russell M. Nelson,
"Salvation and Exaltation," General Conference, April 2008
11/9/08
"The
subject of marriage is debated across the world, where various
arrangements exist for conjugal living. My purpose in speaking out on
this topic is to declare, as an Apostle of the Lord, that marriage
between a man and a woman is sacred—¯it is ordained of God. I also
assert the virtue of a temple marriage. It is the highest and most
enduring type of marriage that our Creator can offer to His children."
- Russell M. Nelson, "Celestial Marriage," General Conference,
October 2008
2/24/09
"Spiritual
security will always depend upon how one lives, not where one lives.
Saints in every land have equal claim upon the blessings of the Lord."
- Russell M. Nelson, "The Gathering
of Scattered Israel," CR October 2006
7/20/09
“The crowning attribute that leads to joy is love of God. Even that
first look in the mirror can be more enjoyable knowing we are created
in his image. Each of us can say, as did the Apostle, 'Thou hast made
known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy
countenance' (Acts 2:28; see also Ps. 16:11). - Russell
M. Nelson, “Joy Cometh in the Morning,"¯ Ensign (CR), November 1986,
p. 67
12/28/09
“For
each of you to receive revelation unique to your own needs and
responsibilities, certain guidelines prevail. The Lord asks you to
develop 'faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the
glory of God.' Then with your firm 'faith, virtue, knowledge,
temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity,
humility, [and] diligence,' you may ask, and you will
receive; you may knock, and it will be opened unto you." - Russell
M. Nelson, “Ask, Seek, Knock,"¯ Ensign, November 2009
5/21/10
"Spiritual
self-esteem begins with the realization that each new morning is a gift
from God. Even the air we breathe is a loving loan from him. He
preserves us from day to day and supports us from one moment to another
(see Mosiah 2:21)." - Russell M.
Nelson, "Joy Cometh in the Morning," Ensign (CR), November 1986, p. 67
7/17/10
"Facing you, I am reminded of military days long ago when our platoon
heard shouts from a sergeant: 'Attention!' 'Right face!' 'Left face!'
'About face!' We learned to respond to those orders with instant
precision. In retrospect, I don't recall ever having heard his command
to 'face upward.' Yet scriptures tell us to 'look to God and live.'" -
Russell M. Nelson, "Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods," Ensign (CR), May
1996, p. 14
8/27/10
"We teach that God's love for His children is infinite. Regardless of
race, nationality, or gender, He loves all of them. He has done so from
the beginning and will continue to do so. He invites all to gain eternal
exaltation for their family. His work and His glory is to bring to pass
the immortality and eternal life—the exaltation—of His children. 'For
God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that
whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting
life.'" - Russell M. Nelson, "Generations Linked in Love," Ensign (CR)
May 2010
9/20/10
"Each exemplary follower of
Jesus Christ can become an effective member missionary. Members and
full-time missionaries may walk arm in arm in bringing the blessings of
the gospel to cherished friends and neighbors. Many of them are of
Israel, now being gathered as promised. This is all part of the
preparation for the Second Coming of the Lord. He wants each of us truly
to be an example of the believers."¯ - Russell
M. Nelson, "Be
Thou an Example of the Believers,"¯ Ensign (CR) October 2010
7/4/11
"The Lord said, 'Look
unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.' I have learned that such
faith gives emancipating power. Facing God first lets us decide firmly
what we shall not do; then we are free to pursue what we ought to do." -
Russell M. Nelson, "Thou
Shalt Have No Other Gods," Ensign (CR), May 1996, p.14
7/10/11
"False gods can only lead to dead ends.
If our journey through life is to be successful, we need to follow
divine direction. The Lord said, 'Look unto me in every thought; doubt
not, fear not.' And the Psalmist wrote, 'Thy word is a lamp unto my
feet, and a light unto my path.'" - Russell
M. Nelson, "Living
by Scriptural Guidance," Ensign (CR), November 2000, p.16
8/28/11
I believe there is no greater call in
the Church than to be an effective teacher. Effective teaching by the
Spirit can stir the souls of men with a desire to live the principles of
the gospel of Jesus Christ more completely. - Russell M. Nelson,
"Teaching—¯No Greater Call," Ensign (CR) April 1983
9/27/11
The source of our spiritual power is
the Lord! The ultimate source of spiritual power is God our Father. The
messenger of this power is the Holy Ghost. This power differs from
electrical power. An electrical appliance consumes power. The use of His
spiritual power replenishes our power. While electrical power can be
used only for measured periods of time, spiritual power can be used for
time and eternity! - Russell M.
Nelson, "
Clearly, Lehi knew opposition, anxiety, heartache, pain, disappointment, and sorrow. Yet he declared boldly and without reservation a principle as revealed by the Lord: “Men are, that they might have joy.” Imagine! Of all the words he could have used to describe the nature and purpose of our lives here in mortality, he chose the word joy! – Russell M. Nelson, “Joy and Spiritual Survival,” Ensign (CR) November 2016
3/21/17
It
is true. We live to die, and we die to live again. From an eternal
perspective, the only death that is truly premature is the death of
one who is not prepared to meet God. – Russell
M. Nelson, “Face
the
Future with Faith,” Ensign (CR) May 2011
3/26/17
Irrespective
of
age, we mourn for those loved and lost. Mourning is one of the deepest
expressions of pure love. It is a natural response in complete accord
with divine commandment: “Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch
that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die.” (D&C
42:45.)
Moreover, we can’t fully appreciate joyful reunions later without tearful separations now. The only way to take sorrow out of death is to take love out of life. – Russell M. Nelson, “Doors of Death,” Ensign (CR) May 1992