The Lord commands us to esteem others as ourselves. Book of Mormon prophets teach this principle and warn us against placing ourselves above others. Peer relationships may generate unhealthy competition, but when we see one another through God's eyes, we can overcome this temptation and recognize the infinite worth of each of His children.
Thy Calling, Thy Duty
God's callings serve two purposes: giving us opportunities to serve others while simultaneously opening our hearts to receive the sanctifying power of Jesus Christ.
Wealth and Wisdom
In the book Predictably Irrational, Duke University professor Dan Ariely examines a number of situations where monetizing something cheapens it. For example, if you offered to pay your mother-in-law for preparing a Thanksgiving dinner, she would probably be insulted. Some things have intrinsic value which cannot and should not be measured in terms of money.... Continue Reading →
None Other Work
The Lord told the ancient prophet Joseph that He would command Joseph Smith to do "none other work" than what he had been given to do. We can apply this principle by fulfilling our assignments well and not doing someone else's job for them.
Strictness
God's commandments are strict. Korihor thought this meant that we lack freedom. But God's strictness is not an attempt to subvert our agency. It is a vote of confidence in us, a vision of what we can become, with His help.
Equal Rights, Shared Responsibilities
Mosiah wanted his people to have equal rights and privileges. They understood that rights and responsibilities are interconnected, and they accepted not only new freedoms but also increased accountability for their actions.
Obtaining Hope
Jacob says that we obtain hope by searching the prophets and by receiving personal revelation. Hearing from many witnesses strengthens our faith and our hope and helps us align our lives with the will of God through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
“Their Delicate Minds”
Jacob taught the men among his people to become more attuned to the impact of their actions on their wives and children, whose feelings were tender. God was aware, and they should be too, of the wounds caused by their insensitivity toward their loved ones
General Conference and the Welfare of Our Souls
Jacob says he obtained his "errand from the Lord" before speaking to his people, because he was anxious for their welfare. As our church leaders prepare for general conference, they also seek to align their words with God's will for our benefit.
Godly Sorrow
Godly sorrow looks to the future with hope, motivating us to act. Worldly sorrow looks to the past and wallows in despair. We should welcome experiences which motivate us to do better, and we should avoid letting negative experiences drag us down.