Why would anyone reject a message like that? Because in empowering us to change, the message challenges the status quo. If you are comfortable with the way things are, you may be “pricked in your heart” (Acts 2:37). The words of the prophets may push you out of your comfort zone as they challenge you and those around you to be better than you have been before.
In the words of Harold B. Lee:
We must learn to give heed to the words and commandments that the Lord shall give through His prophet, “as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me; … as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith” (D&C 21:4–5). There will be some things that take patience and faith. You may not like what comes from the authority of the Church. It may contradict your political views. It may contradict your social views. It may interfere with some of your social life. But if you listen to these things, as if from the mouth of the Lord Himself, with patience and faith, the promise is that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name’s glory” (D&C 21:6). (Chapter 9, Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee, “Heeding the True Messenger of Jesus Christ”).
Today, as I participate in General Conference, I will listen with an open heart, and with a willingness to accept the messages that are given by men and women who are inspired from heaven. I will resist the temptation to ignore or reject portions of that message which may be challenging to me personally, and I will look for the actions I need to take to bring my life more into harmony with the will of God.