I’ve often wished for step-by-step instructions telling me exactly how to pray and get answers. I’ve wanted a list to go through, with the promise that when I got to the end of the list, I would have my answer. No such luck.

Prayer Isn’t Like Aspirin

When I have a headache, I take a break. I rest, lie down, relax. If that doesn’t work, I might try a dark room or a cold cloth. And if that doesn’t work, as a last resort, I’ll take some medicine. This tried and true method of headache relief works for almost everyone; if not, they have different method. But prayer isn’t like aspirin. It’s not a last resort. It’s not something we do only when we’re in pain. It’s also not an instant cure-all.

Prayer is the exact opposite of aspirin. Instead of a last resort, prayer should be something we turn to every single day. Instead of waiting until a problem is beyond our control, or we’re in serious trouble to pray, we should pray always, even when we’re feeling great. Instead of an instant solution to our problems, sometimes we have to continue to pray for the same things for a long time before we receive answers or help.

Guidelines and Counsel

Although there isn’t really a step-by-step instruction manual on prayer, there are guidelines and counsel concerning prayer. In Jeremiah 29, the Lord instructs: “Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:12-13). How exactly can we call upon God, seek Him, and receive the answers we so desire?

• Be heartfelt and sincere. Our prayers are more powerful when we truly pour out our hearts to the Lord. Prayer is more than blandly repeating the same worn-out phrases over and over; it’s about what’s really in our hearts. Prayer becomes so much more powerful for us when we really talk to God, and tell Him how we really feel.
• Use appropriate language. It’s important to remember that we’re speaking to God, the most powerful Being in the universe. Using proper and respectful language is easier when we remember with whom we are speaking.
• Have spirit of gratitude. God, our Heavenly Father, has given us everything. I know sometimes it seems like we’re left with nothing, but stop for a minute. We have a body. We have a life on this earth. We have the hope of our Savior Jesus Christ. There is always something to be thankful for.
• Pray like everything depends on God and then work like everything depends on you. It’s wonderful and important to pray fervently and sincerely. But we can’t expect God to do everything for us. We must work our hardest to make what we’ve prayed for happen, because it shows Heavenly Father that we are serious.
• Remember to pray for others. No matter how bad things get, there are always people who need our prayers. Our family members, friends, neighbors—many people need prayers. Additionally, praying for others increases our love for them. Trouble with a roommate or friend? Pray for that person, sincerely, and it will be easier to love him or her.

Have You Tried Prayer?

President Thomas S. Monson, president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares the following anecdote:

One human resource officer assigned to handle petty grievances concluded an unusually hectic day by placing facetiously a little sign on his desk for those with unsolved problems. It read, ‘Have you tried prayer?’ What he may not have realized was that this simple counsel would solve more problems, alleviate more suffering, prevent more transgression, and bring about greater peace and contentment in the human soul than could be obtained in any other way (“Come Unto Him in Prayer and Faith,” Liahona March 2009).

Prayer seems like such a simple solution, and to many people seems like a waste of time. After all, we can’t see God, and He has billions of people praying to Him every day. But all it takes is a little bit of faith. Faith that Heavenly Father loves each of us, because He does. Faith that He listens to each of our prayers, because He can. Faith that He answers prayers, because He will.

To the critics who believe that prayer is outdated, a practice for a simpler time, President Monson replies:

Don’t we today, as always, love our children and want them to live righteously? Don’t we today, as always, need God’s divine, protecting care? Don’t we today, as always, continue to be at His mercy and in His debt for the very life He has given us? Times have not really changed. Prayer continues to provide power—spiritual power. Prayer continues to provide peace—spiritual peace (“Come Unto Him in Prayer and Faith,” Liahona March 2009).

We can turn to the Lord always, whenever and wherever we are. He loves us—we are His children. He wants us to pray to Him, and will answer us. Prayer isn’t like aspirin. It’s better.

megan

Megan is a graduate of BYU-Idaho and recently married member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She is a writer and avid reader, and loves music, hiking, and her family.

God Speaks to Us through His Prophets

All throughout recorded history, God has called prophets to speak His words to His children. Ancient prophets included Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Isaiah. Peter and Paul were prophets. Prophets have always received and taught God’s word to His children in every age, calling their people to repentance and testifying of Jesus Christ, both before and after His mortal ministry. They lead God’s people in their day. They warn their people of the specific dangers of their time. Most of all, they point the way back to God. In good times and in bad, prophets of God provide a moral beacon to show us the way to go in an often confusing world. Amos, an Old Testament prophet, put it this way:

Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets (Amos 3:7).

Hosea spoke about how prophets lead and bless the lives of their people:

I have also spoken by the prophets, and I have multiplied visions, and used similitudes, by the ministry of the prophets (Hosea 12:10).

And by a prophet the Lord brought Israel out of Egypt, and by a prophet was he preserved (Hosea 12:13).

Aside from the words of Jesus Himself, everything we know about God comes from the words of His prophets, throughout all the ages of the world. Moses wrote about the creation of the earth, and recorded the Ten Commandments he received from God on Mount Sinai. Even our knowledge of our Savior, Jesus Christ comes to us through the writings of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, Peter and Paul. The words of the prophets are essential to our eternal lives.

The Prophet on the Earth Today

When God restored His ancient Church through revelation in modern times, He called and ordained a new prophet, Joseph Smith, to once again reveal God’s will to His people. Like all the prophets of old, Joseph Smith called the people of his day to repentance and testified of the Savior, Jesus Christ. He warned the early Mormons of danger and showed them the way to return to God. God commanded Joseph Smith to organize The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1830. Since then, the Church and the world have been blessed with living prophets to guide us in modern times, just as in times of old.

Thomas S. Monson has been called of God to be His prophet today. Thomas S. Monson is the current President of the Church of Jesus Christ. He has been ordained a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator through the priesthood authority passed down from Joseph Smith. President Monson is a humble and loving man who is worthy and willing to carry the heavy burden of being the Prophet of the Lord. Mormons know that he listens to what God says to him, and then passes it on to us. He always testifies of Jesus Christ to the world, no matter what the personal cost. If we listen to and do what Thomas Monson teaches us, he will help light the way for us to return again to our Father in Heaven.

General Conference: Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice

President Monson will preside over the 182nd annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He will speak several times. Mormons will listen attentively to what God, through His living prophet today, has to tell us. A Mormon hymn speaks of the blessings of listening to the prophet:

Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice

Come, listen to a Prophet’s voice,

And hear the word of God,

And in the way of truth rejoice,

And sing for joy aloud.

We’ve found the way the Prophets went

Who lived in days of yore.

Another Prophet now is sent,

This knowledge to restore.

 

The gloom of sullen darkness, spread

Through earth’s extended space

Is banished by our living Head

And God has shown His face.

Through erring schemes, in days now past,

The world has gone astray,

Yet Saints of God have found at last

The straight and narrow way.

(Hymns #21, verses 1 and 2)

Come listen yourself to the voice of God’s living prophet on the earth today. You can tune in to Mormon General Conference by finding a local TV, radio, or cable station. Or you can listen by going to lds.org. You will be blessed by following the words of the prophet. He will help you understand the gospel of Jesus Christ, and help light the way through the confusing landscape of the modern world.

Additional Resources:

182nd General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Study by Topic: Prophets

Christ’s Church

nora

“What are you looking at down there?” I recognized that voice—it was President Thomas S. Monson.

I quickly looked up and responded, “Oh, nothing.” (I’m sure that clever response inspired confidence in my abilities!)

But he had seen my subdued countenance and my heavy briefcase. He smiled and lovingly suggested, while pointing heavenward, “It is better to look up!” As we traveled down one more level, he cheerfully explained that he was on his way to the temple. When he bid me farewell, his parting glance spoke again to my heart, “Now, remember, it is better to look up” (Elder Carl B. Cook, October 2011 General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).

Thomas S. Monson: Prophet, Seer, and Revelator

Thomas S. Monson is more than just the President of the Church. He is a living prophet, seer, and revelator. As the Lord’s spokesman on the earth today, he holds the priesthood responsibility to communicate God’s will to individuals, to the Church, and to the world. He is not just the prophet for Mormons; he is the prophet for all humankind. His brief communication to Elder Cook helped Elder Cook look to God, and find in his Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ the comfort that he needed. This is the role of a prophet:

Since then I have pondered this experience and the role of prophets. I was burdened and my head was down. As the prophet spoke, I looked to him. He redirected my focus to look up to God, where I could be healed and strengthened through Christ’s Atonement. That is what prophets do for us. They lead us to God (Elder Cook, October 2011).

Prophets: Look to God and Live

There are many stories in the scriptures of prophets looking to God, and directing the people to do the same. Elijah looked to the heavens to call down fire to consume his offering, and rain to end the drought. Stephen, “being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God” (Acts 7:55). Elder Cook talks about Moses, who was commanded to raise a brass serpent on a pole when the children of Israel were dying after being bitten by poisonous serpents. All who were willing simply to look at the brass serpent, which represented our Savior, Jesus Christ, were healed.

Nephi, a prophet who lived in the Americas just prior to the coming of Jesus Christ, taught his people to look to the Savior for life, healing, and forgiveness. In The Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ, Nephi used the story of the brass serpent to try to convince his people to have faith in Christ. Speaking of Moses, Nephi said:

Yea, did he not bear record that the Son of God should come? And as he lifted up the brazen serpent in the wilderness, even so shall he be lifted up who should come.

And as many as should look upon that serpent should live, even so as many as should look upon the Son of God with faith, having a contrite spirit, might live, even unto that life which is eternal (The Book of Mormon, Helaman 8:14-15).

Looking to Jesus Christ

President Thomas S. Monson, like all the prophets before him, is asking us to look to Jesus Christ for direction and for encouragement. He works diligently every day of his life to communicate to us how important it is to look to our Savior always, in good times and in bad. Through the atonement of Jesus Christ, we can find the strength to repent of our sins, keep the Lord’s commandments, and endure the trials of life. The prophet’s words can communicate the words and the love of Christ to us, and it is through the love of God that we can experience our greatest joys here on earth. The prophet’s testimony of Christ also plants in our hearts the hope of eternal life to come. As President Thomas S. Monson said in a speech given on Easter Sunday, 2010:

My beloved brothers and sisters, in our hour of deepest sorrow, we can receive profound peace from the words of the angel that first Easter morning: “He is not here: for he is risen” (Matthew 28:6).

He is risen! He is risen!

Tell it out with joyful voice.

He has burst his three days’ prison;

Let the whole wide earth rejoice.

Death is conquered; man is free.

Christ has won the victory! (“He Is Risen!” Hymns, no. 199)

As one of His special witnesses on earth today, this glorious Easter Sunday, I declare that this is true, in His sacred name—even the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior—amen.

nora

21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me (John 17).

These verses are taken from the King James translation of the Great Intercessory Prayer given by Jesus Christ. In other places, Jesus had said that He and His Father were one, and in these verses, we are given an understanding of what He meant by this. He is saying He wants His apostles to be one in the same way God and Jesus Christ are one—unified. It is obvious He did not mean to add them to the trinity.

Mormons believe that God and Jesus Christ have physical, but perfected and glorified bodies, but that the Holy Ghost is a spirit without a body. Stephen’s vision demonstrated that both God and Jesus Christ are physically visible and are separate beings:

55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. (Acts 7)

It is important to note that Stephen was murdered for daring to testify of this.

However, the Holy Ghost does not have a body, in order to better fulfill His role in the Godhead. One responsibility of the Holy Ghost is to testify of God and Jesus Christ, as well as of other gospel truths. When we want to know what is true, we can pray and ask God. The answer will be given to us through the Holy Ghost.

13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come (John 16:13).

We understand from this verse that we can trust the promptings of the Holy Ghost because He never offers His own opinions. He tells us only what God tells Him to say. God has promised us that if we ask Him for wisdom and knowledge He will give it to us.

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him (James 1:5).

Mormons consider this to be a critical scripture. It helps us understand that the only way to know what is true is to ask God, who will answer us through the Holy Ghost. Mormons are taught not to trust the testimony of other mortals. While hearing the testimony of others is helpful and important, it must not be our final source of truth. If we pray and ask God what is true, we will never be misled. Although there are some who reject the Mormon teaching to pray about truth, suggesting we can’t tell where the answer is coming from, Mormons trust the Bible and they trust God. Mormons know that God keeps His promises. If He promises He will answer our religious questions, then He will also ensure the Holy Ghost can present those answers in a way the person praying can recognize as coming from God. One way this happens is that when a person tells God he believes something to be true, and asks for confirmation of this—the proper way to approach a request for wisdom—the petitioner will have a feeling of peace and joy. Satan cannot bring about peace and joy. Many people feel a stirring in their heart that feels warm and comforting. Satan cannot bring comfort. The more often we turn to God for advice, the better we become at recognizing how He answers us. These answers always come through the Holy Ghost.

Another role of the Holy Ghost is to provide comfort. The Savior called the Holy Ghost the Comforter for this reason. He can comfort our hearts when we are frightened, worried, or struggling. This comfort reassures us that God is in charge and is helping us through our trials.

A third role of the Holy Ghost is protection. When we are trying to do the right thing, the Holy Ghost will accompany us and warn us of danger or that we are about to sin. When we listen to these promptings, we have increased safety, sometimes physically, and always spiritually.

It is through the Holy Ghost that we’re sanctified when we repent. This sanctification also occurs when we receive special ordinances, such as baptism.

Everyone, from birth, is entitled to the influence of the Holy Ghost. Otherwise, we would be unable to learn what is true. However, to have the Gift of the Holy Ghost, which is to have Him with us every moment if we are worthy, we must first be baptized by someone who has the appropriate priesthood authority and confirmed a member of the Church. At the time of confirmation, the Gift of the Holy Ghost is given. Mormon children are baptized at the age of eight, which is considered the age of accountability—the age when they are old enough to understand right from wrong if taught.

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38).

 With this gift, a person has the right to receive the Holy Ghost as a constant companion. However, this is contingent on worthiness. If we are living unworthily or if we ignore the promptings of the Holy Ghost, we lose His companionship. If we intentionally put ourselves in danger—particularly spiritual danger—and ignore the warnings of the Holy Ghost to flee—we will lose His companionship because He can’t accompany us into evil settings we have chosen for ourselves. It is our responsibility to live in a manner that is worthy of His companionship and to obey His promptings.

Following are some thoughts Thomas S. Monson, president and prophet of the Mormons, has offered concerning the Holy Ghost:

When you, my dear young friends, frame your life with faith, you will merit the companionship of the Holy Ghost. You will have “a perfect brightness of hope” (2 Ne. 31:20). (From “The Lighthouse of the Lord: A Message to the Youth of the Church,” Ensign, Feb. 2001, 2–7.)

 

Long years ago a divine command was given by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as He said to His beloved eleven disciples: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”¹ Mark records that “they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them.”²

This sacred charge has not been rescinded. Rather, it has been reemphasized. The Prophet Joseph Smith set forth the purpose of the Church when he declared: “It is the bringing of men and women to a knowledge of the eternal truth that Jesus is the Christ, the Redeemer and Savior of the world, and that only through belief in Him, and faith which manifests itself in good works, can men and nations enjoy peace” (That All May Hear, General Conference, April 1995).

Precious young people, make every decision you contemplate pass this test: What does it do to me? What does it do for me? And let your code of conduct emphasize not “What will others think?” but rather “What will I think of myself?” Be influenced by that still, small voice. Remember that one with authority placed his hands on your head at the time of your confirmation and said, “Receive the Holy Ghost.” Open your hearts, even your very souls, to the sound of that special voice that testifies of truth. As the prophet Isaiah promised, “Thine ears shall hear a word … saying, This is the way, walk ye in it” (Isaiah 30:21) (Standards of Strength, New Era, October 2008).

 

A Mormon apostle testifies of the Holy Ghost in this video:

Terrie Lynn Bittner

The late Terrie Lynn Bittner—beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—was the author of two homeschooling books and numerous articles, including several that appeared in Latter-day Saint magazines. She became a member of the Church at the age of 17 and began sharing her faith online in 1992.

Mormons do not pass a collection plate, so visitors are never asked for money. However, they do pay tithing. They get an envelope that is usually found near the office of the bishop (similar to a lay pastor) and place their check or cash in it. They fill out a form to identify who paid it and then hand it to the bishop or one of his two assistants. No one outside of leaders in charge of these things knows who did or did not pay it.

Why are Mormons willing to give up ten percent of their income when the average Christian donation is only four percent?

All of us can afford to pay tithing. In reality, none of us can afford not to pay tithing. The Lord will strengthen our resolve. He will open a way to comply.

May I share with you a letter I received some months ago which provides such an example? The letter begins:

“We live on the edge of a small town, and our neighbor uses our pasture for his cattle and as payment provides us with all the beef we want. Each time we get new meat, we have some of the present supply left over; and since we live in a student ward, we take meat to some students we feel might have use for some good beef.

“During the time my wife was serving in a Relief Society presidency, her secretary was a student’s wife—the mother of eight children. Her husband, Jack, had recently been called as ward clerk.

“My wife had always prayed to know which students might need our help with our excess meat. When she told me she felt we should give some meat to Jack and his family, I was very concerned that we might offend them. So was she. We both were worried because they were a very independent family.

“A few days later, my wife said she still felt we should take the meat to them, and I reluctantly agreed to go along. When we delivered the meat, my wife’s hands were actually shaking, and I was very nervous. The children opened the door, and when they heard why we were there, they began dancing around. The parents were reserved but pleasant. When we drove away, my wife and I both were so relieved and happy that they had accepted our gift.

“A few months later our friend Jack got up in testimony meeting and related the following. He said that all his life he had had a hard time paying tithing. With such a large family, they used all the money he made just to get by. When he became ward clerk, he saw all the other people paying tithing and felt he needed to also. He did so for a couple of months, and all was well. Then one month he had a problem. In his job, he completed work and was paid a few months later. He could see that the family was going to be far short of money. He and his wife decided to share the problem with their children. If they paid their tithing, they would run out of food on about the 20th of the month. If they didn’t pay their tithing, they could buy enough food to last until the next paycheck. Jack said he wanted to buy [the] food, but the children said they wanted to pay tithing—so Jack paid the tithing, and they all prayed.

“A few days after paying their tithing, we had shown up with our package of meat for them. With the meat, added to what they had, there was no problem having enough food until the next paycheck.

“There are so many lessons here for me—for instance, always listen to my wife—but for me the most important is that the prayers of people are almost always answered by the actions of others.” (Monson, Thomas S. ““Be Thou an Example”.” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Oct. 1996.).

Tithing was instituted in ancient times to help pay the costs of running God’s church and to bring blessings to those willing to make the necessary sacrifices.

Tithes are first mentioned in Genesis, showing they were instigated very early in the Earth’s history. In Genesis 14, Abraham is shown to be paying his tithes. In Genesis 28 Jacob is vowing to pay the tenth as well.

And this is the definition of tithing. A tithe is a tenth. Perhaps the best-known explanation of this commandment comes from Malachi, in the Old Testament:

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it (Malachi 3:10, King James Bible).

Mormon beliefs state that the tenth is one-tenth of your income. God gives us everything we have and asks only ten percent of it to do His work and Mormons consider this entirely fair and even generous. Without God, we would have nothing at all.

Even though it is God’s money to begin with, He promises us blessings if we will willingly pay our tithing. Malachi said we’d receive so many blessings we wouldn’t have room to receive it all. Some people misunderstand this scripture and think God will make them rich—returning their donation with monetary interest, so to speak. However, the scripture does not mention money. There are many types of blessings and the non-monetary blessings are usually far more valuable in the eternal scheme of things. A person who pays his tithing might be blessed with good health, with a happy family life, with secure employment, or simply with the joys that come from eternal life. A person who tithes will find he has enough—maybe not all he wants, but enough. One reason for this is:

“I bear witness—and I know that the witness I bear is true—that the men and the women who have been absolutely honest with God, who have paid their tithing, … God has given them wisdom whereby they have been able to utilize the remaining nine-tenths, and it has been of greater value to them, and they have accomplished more with it than they would if they had not been honest with the Lord” (Heber J. Grant in Conference Report, Apr. 1912, p. 30).

The tithing must be paid willingly and happily and be seen as a privilege, not a burden.

Tithing is used for a wide range of services. The Mormon Church is a lay church, so the bishops (ministers) and other workers are not being paid for their work. However, it costs money to run any organization. Buildings must be built, furnished, and maintained. They are heated, cooled, given running water and so forth. Mormons nearly all have callings, which are volunteer church jobs. They are instructed not to spend their own money on these, so supplies and travel must be reimbursed when purchased. A teacher of preschoolers, for instance, will need a lesson manual, which is provided, and then she may want crayons, paper, and other supplies to make the lessons more interesting. These materials are provided for the teacher, often in a bin each teacher picks up at the start of Primary. With the exception of a few special events, like summer camps, all activities are offered at no cost, so supplies are also needed to pay for official activities, including dances, parties, service projects, and outings for the youth.

A library is maintained in most buildings with audio-visual equipment, scriptures, reference materials, office supplies (which are often used by teachers and leaders in running a program) and photocopiers.

Tithing and other offerings are also used to assist in humanitarian efforts. LDS Charities provides humanitarian work worldwide to communities and individuals regardless of religion. These efforts include clean water initiatives, immunizations, neonatal care, wheelchairs, and emergency response. Within their own congregations, they provide food, utilities, and other temporary needs for church members who are encountering unexpected situations.

Tithing also helps to pay for the building and operation of Mormon temples. Because Mormon beliefs state that these are temples of the Lord, Mormons build the very nicest temples they can to demonstrate their love for the Savior—just as you would make the very nicest item if you were making something for something you loved. You’d use the best materials you could find and make it as lovely and perfect as possible. Mormons love Jesus Christ, so they build Him the finest gift they can. Inside the temples, they are giving the Savior another gift. The official Mormon website explains:

Temples are literally houses of the Lord. They are holy places of worship where individuals make sacred covenants with God. Because making covenants with God is such a solemn responsibility, individuals cannot enter the temple to receive their endowments or be sealed in marriage for eternity until they have fully prepared themselves and been members of the Church for at least a year. Throughout history, the Lord has commanded His people to build temples. The Church is working to build temples all over the world to make temple blessings more available for a greater number of Heavenly Father’s children.” (Temples, LDS.org)

The Mormons also run a serious education program which is paid for—all or in part depending on the program—by tithing. They have several universities with tuition much lower than most private universities due to tithing. Throughout the world, Institutes of Religion are operated for college students. These programs allow college students to include high-level religious training into their secular college education even if they can’t attend a Mormon school. At the high school level, teenagers attend a Seminary program before school each day and again, studying the scriptures in a more in-depth way than is possible in forty minutes of Sunday School. Over the course of four years of high school, they spend one year each on the Old and New Testaments, the Book of Mormon, and Doctrine and Covenants/Church history.

There are many other programs that utilize tithing money. Mormons see tithing as a way to show their gratitude for God for the gifts He has given them and as a way to contribute to the many church programs that enrich their lives. They are glad they can participate in the building up of God’s kingdom.

Mormons have one belief about families that is very unique and which is comforting to those grieving after the death of a loved ones. Mormon beliefs teach that families were meant to last forever.

God intended for each marriage to have the potential to last forever. He does not advocate divorce except in specific circumstances, such as abuse or infidelity. In ordinary circumstances, He wants couples to work hard to make their families successful and, not being an advocate of divorce, He would never force worthy couples to divorce upon the death of one spouse or the other:

4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,

5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?

6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder (Matthew 19, King James translation of the Holy Bible).

Jesus explained that Moses allowed for divorce due to the hardness of the hearts of his people, but that God had not earlier allowed it. Divorce is not God’s invention and those who lightly choose it will be held accountable.

Nor would God rob a person of the family he or she loves. Many of us have experienced being in a wonderful place or situation and longing for our families to be there to share the experience. Somehow, not having them along took away from the joy of the moment.

God has promised us that in Heaven we will be happier than we ever imagined possible. Who among us who loves someone could be happier than ever imagined without those we love? When we go to Heaven, we will be ourselves, taking with us what is in our hearts and minds, including our love. We will be able to live together as families, just as we did on earth, sharing the joys of eternity together.

Most people, even those who think they don’t believe in eternal families, know this deep in their hearts. It comes to light when someone dies and they say, “At least Mom and Dad are together again,” or they comfort a child with the promise that “your mommy is in heaven and someday you’ll see her again.” Their heart knows what the world has tried to take from them intellectually, that a loving God will give us an opportunity to be together forever. Agreeing to marry someone for eternity is a powerful assurance of the love two people have for each other and is a comfort to their children. Children can grow up feeling safe and secure knowing their parents will always be theirs.

Following are some thoughts the current Mormon prophet, Thomas S. Monson, has on the subject of eternal families.

Building an Eternal Home

A home is much more than a house built of lumber, brick, or stone. A home is made of love, sacrifice, and respect. We are responsible for the homes we build. We must build wisely, for eternity is not a short voyage. There will be calm and wind, sunlight and shadows, joy and sorrow. But if we really try, our home can be a bit of heaven here on earth. The thoughts we think, the deeds we do, the lives we live not only influence the success of our earthly journey, they also mark the way to our eternal goals.

Some Latter-day Saint families are comprised of mother, father, and children, all at home, while others have witnessed the tender departure of one, then another, then another of their members. Sometimes a single individual comprises a family. Whatever its composition, the family continues—for families can be forever.

We can learn from the master architect—even the Lord. He has taught us how we must build. He declared, “Every … house divided against itself shall not stand” (Matt. 12:25). Later He cautioned, “Behold, mine house is a house of order … and not a house of confusion” (D&C 132:8).

In a revelation given through the Prophet Joseph Smith at Kirtland, Ohio, December 27, 1832, the Master counseled, “Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God” (D&C 88:119; see also D&C 109:8).

Where could any of us locate a more suitable blueprint whereby he could wisely and properly build? Such a house would meet the building code outlined in Matthew, even a house built “upon a rock” (Matt. 7:24, 25; see also Luke 6:48; 3 Ne. 14:24, 25), a house capable of withstanding the rains of adversity, the floods of opposition, and the winds of doubt everywhere present in our changing and challenging world.

Thomas S. Monson, “Heavenly Homes, Forever Families,” Liahona, Jun 2006, 66–71

A Mother’s Most Important Treasure

A gentle, soft-spoken mother had passed away. She left to her stalwart sons and lovely daughters no fortune of finance but, rather, a heritage of wealth in example, in sacrifice, in obedience. After the funeral eulogies had been spoken and the sad trek to the cemetery had been made, the grown family sorted through the meager possessions the mother had left. Louis discovered a note and also a key. The note instructed: “In the corner bedroom, in the bottom drawer of my dresser, is a tiny box. It contains the treasure of my heart. This key will open the box.” Another son asked, “What could Mother have of sufficient value to be placed under lock and key?” A sister commented, “Dad has been gone all these years, and Mother has had precious little of this world’s goods.”

The box was removed from its resting place in the dresser drawer and opened carefully with the aid of the key. What did it contain? No money, no deed, no precious rings or valuable jewels. Louis took from the box a faded photograph of his father. On the back of the photograph was the penned message, “My dear husband and I were sealed together for time and all eternity in the House of the Lord, at Salt Lake City, December 12, 1891.”

Next there emerged an individual photo of each child, with his or her name and birth date. Finally, Louis held to the light a homemade valentine. In crude, childlike penmanship, which he recognized as his own, Louis read the words he had written 60 years before: “Dear Mother, I love you.”

Hearts were tender, voices soft, and eyes moist. Mother’s treasure was her eternal family. Its strength rested on the bedrock foundation of “I love you.”

Thomas S. Monson, “The Doorway of Love,” Ensign, Oct 1996, 2

Reassurance at Death of an Eternal Family

Contemplating such far-reaching matters, we reflect upon the helplessness of a newborn child. No better example can be found for total dependency. Needed is nourishment for the body and love for the soul. Mother provides both. She who, with her hand in the hand of God, descended into “the valley of the shadow of death” (Ps. 23:4), that you and I might come forth to life, is not in her maternal mission abandoned by God.

Several years ago, the Salt Lake City newspapers published an obituary notice of a close friend—a mother and wife taken by death in the prime of her life. I visited the mortuary and joined a host of persons gathered to express condolence to the distraught husband and motherless children. Suddenly the smallest child, Kelly, recognized me and took my hand in hers.

“Come with me,” she said; and she led me to the casket in which rested the body of her beloved mother. “I’m not crying, Brother Monson, and neither must you. My mommy told me many times about death and life with Heavenly Father. I belong to my mommy and my daddy. We’ll all be together again.”

Through tear-moistened eyes, I recognized a beautiful and faith-filled smile. To my young friend, whose tiny hand yet clasped mine, there would never be a hopeless dawn. Sustained by her unfailing testimony, knowing that life continues beyond the grave, she, her father, her brothers, her sisters, and indeed all who share this knowledge of divine truth, can declare to the world, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” (Ps. 30:5).

Thomas S. Monson, “An Invitation to Exaltation,” Ensign, May 1988, 53

To understand the beginning of the talk, you must understand one important doctrine in Mormon beliefs. Mormons believe we lived in Heaven with God before we were born. We were spirits, meaning we didn’t have a physical body, but we did have our own personalities. We were ourselves and we were spending that time preparing to come to earth. We learned the Gospel and developed a close relationship with God. We began to develop our testimonies and to decide what kind of person we were and how much we cared what God was teaching us. We were setting the stage for our future lives. Those who have children know children are born with distinct, identifiable personalities. Those personalities can be molded and shaped by parents, life experiences, and our own choices, but we start out as unique people.

After a time, God told us it was time to leave home and go out into the world. As parents know, children really find out who they are when they are on their own and making choices without their parents right there. He assured us we would have a Savior to atone for our sins, consistent access to God through personal prayer, and the ability to repent. We would also have a very essential gift, one we had from the moment we were created as spirits. We would have agency, the ability to choose for ourselves. When we learned about God and Jesus Christ we would be free to reject or to accept—but of course, we would also have to accept the consequences.

When this plan was presented, Satan rebelled against it. President Monson said, “We know that we had our agency before this world was and that Lucifer attempted to take it from us. He had no confidence in the principle of agency or in us and argued for imposed salvation. He insisted that with his plan none would be lost, but he seemed not to recognize—or perhaps not to care—that in addition, none would be any wiser, any stronger, any more compassionate, or any more grateful if his plan were followed.”

Satan’s plan was that we would have every action, every thought, every decision made for us—by Satan—and that all our love and loyalty and worship would go only to him, not God. Because we had our agency, the very agency Satan wanted us to use to volunteer to give up our agency, God allowed us to choose for ourselves. We could follow Satan and turn away from God’s plan if we chose. But we could also, instead, choose to follow Jesus Christ, who offered to serve as our Savior if we would follow God’s plan. Thomas Monson explained,

“We who chose the Savior’s plan knew that we would be embarking on a precarious, difficult journey, for we walk the ways of the world and sin and stumble, cutting us off from our Father. But the Firstborn in the Spirit offered Himself as a sacrifice to atone for the sins of all. Through unspeakable suffering He became the great Redeemer, the Savior of all mankind, thus making possible our successful return to our Father.

The prophet Lehi tells us: “Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself” (2 Nephi 2:27 in the Book of Mormon).

Sadly, one third of the spirits in Heaven preferred the safety they thought Satan was offering them. They could not be persuaded that Jesus was offering the only way to true happiness. They chose to follow Satan and were denied, as was Satan, the right to be born and to enjoy the blessings of the Savior Jesus Christ’s atonement. All others came to earth to live out God’s plan, which means that if you are here, you chose wisely.

This, then, is the first R, the right to choose. Having the ability to make choices gives us the opportunity to become everything God ever dreamed for us—or to reject it and to waste our lives. The choice is ours. President Monson often reminds us, as he does in this talk that decisions determine destiny. Every time we make an important decision, we are deciding the fate of our eternal lives. It is in our hands. God and Jesus Christ lovingly set the stage and provided us with all the tools we need. We cannot make it back to Heaven without them. We don’t have the ability to receive eternal salvation without God’s grace and the blessings of the extraordinary unselfish gift of atonement the Savior gave us when He took on our sins in the Garden of Gethsemane and died for us on the cross. But if we accept those gifts and make them the central part of our lives, we can return home to God. They have done their part and stand by ready to help us as we ask for their help, but it is now up to us. Do we love God enough to keep His commandments and to find out what is true?

This is what is meant when President Monson says we have a responsibility to choose. Responsibility is the second R in the talk.

“We cannot be neutral; there is no middle ground. The Lord knows this; Lucifer knows this. As long as we live upon this earth, Lucifer and his hosts will never abandon the hope of claiming our souls.

Our Heavenly Father did not launch us on our eternal journey without providing the means whereby we could receive from Him God-given guidance to assist in our safe return at the end of mortal life. I speak of prayer. I speak too of the whisperings from that still, small voice within each of us, and I do not overlook the holy scriptures, written by mariners who successfully sailed the seas we too must cross.

Each of us has come to this earth with all the tools necessary to make correct choices. The prophet Mormon tells us, “The Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil”(Moroni 7:16 in the Book of Mormon).

Sometimes it might seem that God has set us on a path that is too hard. There are so many choices, so many temptations. President Monson reminded us that if we choose to have God’s help and live worthy of it, the Holy Ghost will whisper directions to help us along our way. Temptations come, but none are insurmountable. Paul, Jesus’ apostle, promised, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13, King James Translation of the Bible).

The final R is that of results. Each time we make a choice there is a consequence. We can choose what to do but we cannot choose the consequences, either for ourselves or for others who are affected by our choices but who didn’t make the choices themselves. Sometimes, being mortal, we make mistakes. President Monson reminds us that when this happens, the Savior’s atonement allows us to repent. When we repent fully, God forgets our sins.

Life isn’t easy, but it’s worth it when we experience the wonderful eternal blessings God has promised us.

“Eternal life in the kingdom of our Father is your goal. Such a goal is not achieved in one glorious attempt but rather is the result of a lifetime of righteousness, an accumulation of wise choices, even a constancy of purpose. As with anything really worthwhile, the reward of eternal life requires effort.”

Evil Surrounds Us

Many years ago, on an assignment to the beautiful islands of Tonga, I was privileged to visit our Church school, the Liahona High School, where our youth are taught by teachers with a common bond of faith—providing training for the mind and preparation for life. On that occasion, entering one classroom, I noticed the rapt attention the children gave their native instructor. His textbook and theirs lay closed upon the desks. In his hand he held a strange-appearing fishing lure fashioned from a round stone and large seashells. This, I learned, was a maka-feke, an octopus lure. In Tonga, octopus meat is a delicacy.

The teacher explained that Tongan fishermen glide over a reef, paddling their outrigger canoes with one hand and dangling the maka-feke over the side with the other. An octopus dashes out from its rocky lair and seizes the lure, mistaking it for a much-desired meal. So tenacious is the grasp of the octopus and so firm is its instinct not to relinquish the precious prize that fishermen can flip it right into the canoe.

It was an easy transition for the teacher to point out to the eager and wide-eyed youth that the evil one—even Satan—has fashioned so-called maka-fekes with which to ensnare unsuspecting persons and take possession of their destinies.

Today we are surrounded by the maka-fekes which the evil one dangles before us and with which he attempts to entice us and then to ensnare us. Once grasped, such maka-fekes are ever so difficult—and sometimes nearly impossible—to relinquish. To be safe, we must recognize them for what they are and then be unwavering in our determination to avoid them.

Constantly before us is the maka-feke of immorality. Almost everywhere we turn, there are those who would have us believe that what was once considered immoral is now acceptable. I think of the scripture, “Wo unto them that call evil good, and good evil, that put darkness for light, and light for darkness.”  Such is the maka-feke of immorality. We are reminded in the Book of Mormon that chastity and virtue are precious above all things.

When temptation comes, remember the wise counsel of the Apostle Paul, who declared, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”

Thomas S. Monson, “True to the Faith,” Liahona, April 2006, 18–21

Personal Responsibility for Morality

Dr. Karl Menninger, the brilliant scientist who founded and developed the world-renowned psychiatric center in Topeka, Kansas, stated that the only way our suffering, struggling, anxious society can hope to prevent its moral ills is by recognizing the reality of sin. That’s the theme of his famed publication, Whatever Became of Sin? a plea to mankind to stop and look at what we are doing to ourselves, to each other and to our universe. Dr. Menninger referred to Socrates, who wondered, “How is it that men know what is good, but do what is bad?” Said Dr. Menninger, “I have come to the conclusion that the ‘Everyone is doing it’ morality which characterizes our public-business world is crippling people. We must believe in our personal responsibility to correct our individual transgressions—the white lies, the petty cheating, the apathy, which characterize our passive existence.” He further stressed, “If the concept of personal responsibility and answerability for ourselves and for others were to return to common acceptance and man once again would feel guilt for sins and repent and establish a conscience that would act as a deterrent for further sin, then hope would return to the world.”

Let me share with you a lesson learned in childhood. Our family has owned a summer cabin at Vivian Park in Provo Canyon for five generations. The months of July and August for me meant hiking; fishing; and swimming daily at the swimming hole, featuring a big rock from which we dived, and maneuvering through the swift current which roared by it and formed dangerous whirlpools. Most swimmers would plunge into the icy waters and swim with the current, rapidly passing the big rock, and be eventually carried to the slower waters and the welcome bank of river sand. That is, all but one swimmer. His name was “Beef” Peterson. His swimsuit carried the emblem of “Life Saver,” and his physical body reflected great strength. Beef would, like others, swim rapidly down the current through the whirlpools, then suddenly turn and swim back upstream. For a few feet, his mighty strokes carried him forward, but then the swiftness of the current held him steady as he pitted his strength against that of the river. Gradually Beef would tire, drop back, and then swim effortlessly to the bank, exhausted. Swimming against the current became Beef Peterson’s trademark.

My brothers and sisters, I’m certain our duty and responsibility is frequently to swim upstream and against the tide of temptation and sin. As we do so, our spiritual strength will increase, and we shall be equal to our God-given responsibilities.

Thomas S. Monson, “Happiness—The Universal Quest,” Ensign, Oct 1993, 2

Courage to Stand for Righteousness

In the four decades since the end of World War II, standards of morality have lowered again and again. Today there are more people in jail, in reformatories, on probation, and in trouble than ever before. From padded expense accounts to grand larceny, from petty crimes to crimes of passion, the figures are higher than ever and going higher. Crime spirals upward; decency careens downward. Many are on a giant roller coaster of disaster, seeking the thrills of the moment while sacrificing the joys of eternity. We conquer space but cannot control self. Thus we forfeit peace.

Can we somehow muster the courage and that steadfastness of purpose which characterized the pioneers of a former generation? Can you and I, in actual fact, be pioneers today? A dictionary defines a pioneer as “one who goes before, showing others the way to follow.” Oh, how the world needs pioneers today!

We forget how the Greeks and Romans prevailed magnificently in a barbaric world and how that triumph ended, how a slackness and softness finally came over them to their ruin. In the end, more than they wanted freedom, they wanted security, a comfortable life; and they lost all—security and comfort and freedom. From the confusion of our modern world, sincere persons searchingly ask themselves: “To whom shall we listen? Whom shall we follow? Whom shall we serve?”

Today, chronic strife permeates even the personal province of the Prince of Peace. Contention thrives, though he declared, “Contention is not of me, but is of the devil.” (3 Ne. 11:29.)

But if we have ears that truly hear, we will be mindful of the echo from Capernaum’s past. Here multitudes crowded around Jesus, bringing the sick to be healed. Here a palsied man picked up his bed and walked, and a Roman centurion’s faith restored his servant’s health.

Many turn away from our Elder Brother, who said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), and follow blindly after that Pied Piper of sin who would lead us down the slippery slopes to our own destruction. Satan cunningly calls to troubled souls in truly tempting tones.

Do not yield to his enticements; rather, stand firm for truth. The unsatisfied yearnings of the soul will not be met by a never-ending quest for joy amidst the thrills of sensation and vice. Vice never leads to virtue. Hate never promotes love. Cowardice never gives courage. Doubt never inspires faith.

Some find it difficult to withstand the mockings and unsavory remarks of foolish ones who ridicule chastity, honesty, and obedience to God’s commands. But the world has ever belittled adherence to principle. When Noah was instructed to build an ark, the foolish populace looked at the cloudless sky, then scoffed and jeered—until the rain came.

Thomas S. Monson, “‘Come, Follow Me’,” Ensign, Jul 1988, 2

On successfully completing the journey of life:

Third, we must not detour from our determined course. In our journey we will encounter forks and turnings in the road. There will be the inevitable trials of our faith and the temptations of our times. We simply cannot afford the luxury of a detour, for certain detours lead to destruction and spiritual death. Let us avoid the moral quicksands that threaten on every side, the whirlpools of sin, and the crosscurrents of uninspired philosophies. That clever pied piper called Lucifer still plays his lilting melody and attracts the unsuspecting away from the safety of their chosen pathway, away from the counsel of loving parents, away from the security of God’s teachings. His tune is ever so old, his words ever so sweet. His price is everlasting. He seeks not the refuse of humanity, but the very elect of God. King David listened, then followed, then fell. But then so did Cain in an earlier era, and Judas Iscariot in a later one.

Thomas S. Monson, “Which Road Will You Travel?,” Ensign, Mar 1991, 2

Calls from God often include trials:

The call to serve has ever characterized the work of the Lord. It rarely comes at a convenient time. It prompts humility; it invites prayer; it inspires commitment. The call came—to Kirtland. Revelations followed. The call came—to Missouri. Persecution prevailed. The call came—to Nauvoo. Prophets died. The call came—to the basin of the Great Salt Lake. Hardship beckoned.

That long journey, made under such difficult circumstances, was a trial of faith. But faith forged in the furnace of trials and tears is marked by trust and testimony. Only God can count the sacrifice; only He can measure the sorrow; only He can know the hearts of those who serve Him—then and now.

Thomas S. Monson, “Your Eternal Voyage,” Ensign, May 2000, 46

We can always turn to God when we have trials or make mistakes:

There are some who have difficulty forgiving themselves and who dwell on all of their perceived shortcomings. I quite like the account of a religious leader who went to the side of a woman who lay dying, attempting to comfort her—but to no avail. “I am lost,” she said. “I’ve ruined my life and every life around me. There is no hope for me.”

The man noticed a framed picture of a lovely girl on the dresser. “Who is this?” he asked.

The woman brightened. “She is my daughter, the one beautiful thing in my life.”

“And would you help her if she were in trouble or had made a mistake? Would you forgive her? Would you still love her?”

“Of course I would!” cried the woman. “I would do anything for her. Why do you ask such a question?”

“Because I want you to know,” said the man, “that figuratively speaking, Heavenly Father has a picture of you on His dresser. He loves you and will help you. Call upon Him.”

A hidden wedge to her happiness had been removed.

In a day of danger or a time of trial, such knowledge, such hope, such understanding will bring comfort to the troubled mind and grieving heart. The entire message of the New Testament breathes a spirit of awakening to the human soul. Shadows of despair are dispelled by rays of hope, sorrow yields to joy, and the feeling of being lost in the crowd of life vanishes with the certain knowledge that our Heavenly Father is mindful of each of us.

The Savior provided assurance of this truth when He taught that even a sparrow shall not fall to the ground unnoticed by our Father. He then concluded the beautiful thought by saying, “Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”3

Thomas S. Monson, “The Peril of Hidden Wedges,” Ensign, Jul 2007, 4–9

only source of truth and safety.

“May we remember that the wisdom of God ofttimes appears as foolishness to men; but the greatest lesson we can learn in mortality is that when God speaks and we obey, we will always be right.” (See Thomas S. Monson, “They Marked the Path to Follow,” Ensign, Oct 2007, 4–9.)

The Mormon willingness to trust and obey God stems from their beliefs about our eternal relationship with Him. Mormon beliefs teach that God created our spirits. After the creation of our spirits, we lived with Him as spirits. We were ourselves, and that time was spent learning the gospel, developing our personalities, and deciding if we were obedient or rebellious. After a time, we’d grown and progressed all we could in the sheltered environment of our Father’s home and were offered the opportunity to come to earth to live and to progress in new ways. Satan attempted to overthrow the Plan of Salvation, wanting to replace it with one in which we would come to earth as mere puppets, doing his will and never having the opportunity to make our own choices. He argued this would keep us safe, because we wouldn’t sin, and therefore would be able to return to Heaven. He demanded all glory and worship be directed to him as a result, essentially allowing him to replace God.

Because agency is a critical aspect of the Plan of Salvation, his plan was not God’s plan. Jesus Christ stepped in and offered to carry out the plan correctly. He would be our Savior, being born on earth, taking our sins upon him through the atonement, and then dying for us. We would be able to choose for ourselves whether or not to accept the Gospel. This was a risk, but the only way we could return to God properly and give meaning to our time on earth. One-third of those in Heaven rejected the Savior’s plan, and were cast out of heaven, unable to come to earth and partake of the atonement. They became Satan’s followers. The remainder of us began taking our turns on earth.

Although we no longer live in God’s presence, he has given us many ways to relearn who He is and to stay close. The Bible is one way Mormons learn about God. It contains a record of God’s dealings with the Israelites and also records the Savior’s life and ministry. The Savior taught us much about God. Of course, God was not only the God of the Israelites. Many people around the world knew of Him and interacted with Him. The Book of Mormon contains a record of God’s dealings with a group of Israelites who immigrated to what is now the Americas. There they lived among the native population, but in their own cities. They left behind a record of their experiences with God and the writings of their prophets.

Prayer is another way we can learn about God. Mormon beliefs teach that as we pray and wait patiently for answers, we can learn to recognize how God communicates with us and understand the answers given to our questions. In James 1:5-6, in the Bible, we learn that God has promised to answer our questions:

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. (James 1:5-6, King James Version of the Bible.)

Most prayers Mormons give are in their own words, rather than being recited prayers. This allows them to communicate openly with God and build a comfortable, loving personal relationship with Him. Mormons believe God need not be distant. We can know Him as well as we know our earthly family and friends. He stands ready to have that relationship with us; it is up to us to demonstrate our willingness to do so.

Mormons believe in a God who is fairly easy to understand. He has a body of flesh and bones, although it is perfected and glorified. The Bible teaches that we were created in His image, and Mormons consider it an honor to be created to look much like Him. (Genesis 1:27 and Genesis 5:1) To understand His nature, we can think about the characteristics of a perfect father—loving, wise, and involved. God has rules and expectations, because a good father does this for his children, and he enacts rewards and punishments to help us grow to become perfected. While we can’t become perfect in this life, we can become as close as possible to it and then complete our progression after our deaths.

Mormons believe that through grace and the atonement of Jesus Christ, everyone has the ability to repent and to be risen from the dead. Everyone is saved from eternal death, regardless of their actions on earth. Not even belief in God is required, because Mormons do not believe in grace by works and taking Christ as our Savior would be a work.

However, most of us want to do more than to live forever. Most who love God wish to spend their eternities with Him and with the families they love. God has promised us that if we keep the commandments to the best of our ability, and repent when we fall, if we have sufficient faith and if we obey out of faith and love, not hope of reward, we can return to live with God after our deaths. No unclean thing can dwell in God’s presence, and since we take our character and personalities with us when we die, only those who love God and live accordingly can dwell with Him. Mormons believe that achieving exaltation, which some call being saved, is not a one-time action, but a life time mission of learning to sacrifice and to align our will with God’s out of love.

These understandings of the nature of God allow Mormons to believe the words of Thomas S. Monson quoted at the start of the article. They trust God to never lead them astray because they know He knows them personally, loves them, and has the power to know what is best.