When the Roman governor Festus told the apostle Paul he was insane, Paul responded calmly and respectfully:
I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.
Acts 26:25
Words of truth are in harmony with reality. They describe “things as they really are” (Jacob 4:13). Words of soberness are disciplined and serious. They reflect well-governed emotions, an enthusiasm that is constrained by reason.
King Benjamin counseled them to teach their children “to walk in the ways of truth and soberness” (Mosiah 4:15).
Alma followed that guidance with his children. After providing corrective feedback to his son Corianton, he said, “Go thy way, declare the word with truth and soberness, that thou mayest bring souls unto repentance” (Alma 42:31).
Another one of Alma’s sons, Helaman, led a remarkable army of 2,000 young men into battle to defend their country. Mormon described Helaman’s soldiers in this way:
They were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all—they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted.
Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him.
Alma 53:20-21
Valiance is admirable. Courage can motivate important actions. But unless they are constrained by self-discipline, they may not accomplish their purposes.
Today, I will speak and act in truth and soberness. I will strive to align my words with reality and to manage my emotions effectively.