Paul told Festus that his words were "of truth and soberness." Words of truth are in harmony with reality. Words of soberness are disciplined and serious. The sons of Helaman were "men of truth and soberness." Their courage was governed by reason.
Void of Offense
King Benjamin, Paul, and Joseph Smith all declared their adherence to conscience. Paul said that he "exercise[d] himself" to have always a conscience void of offense toward God and toward men. We can also be intentional about heeding our conscience.
Trimming My Lamp
To "trim" a lamp is to prepare it to be lit. In the Parable of the Ten Virgins, even the ten wise virgins had to trim their lamps when the bridegroom came. We need to not only build a reserve of oil but also trim our lamps so that we're ready to use them.
“Ye Visited Me”
Jesus taught that we should provide what others lack where possible: food for the hungry, clothing for the naked, etc. When we can't remove their challenges, such as when they are sick or in prison, we can visit them.
The Sheep and the Wayfaring Man
The hymn "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief" elaborates on the types of service described in the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats. As we serve others and meet their needs, we are blessed immediately, and we become more prepared to return to God's presence.
“The Poor Always Ye Have with You”
We can learn at least three things from Jesus's observation that there will always be poor people among us: 1. Don't overextend yourself trying to do good. 2. Make specific proposals. 3. You have an ongoing responsibility to care for the poor and needy.
Abuse
Jesus condemned child abuse in the strongest possible terms. President Nelson has also reiterated the Savior's teachings on this issue. Here are some things I learned by studying the Church's abuse prevention website today.
“Freely Ye Have Received, Freely Give”
One reason Jesus sent His apostles without "purse or scrip" was to help them be generous. When we are the recipients of unmerited blessings, we are more inclined to be generous. As King Benjamin said, we are all beggars, so we should freely give.
Poor in Spirit
The Greek word ptóchos (πτωχός) means literally one who crouches or cowers. God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him. Are we spiritually poor but unaware of it? Have we not yet become ptóchos, crouching and seeking help from Him?
“Exact No More…”
John the Baptist answered the same question asked by three groups of people: "What shall we do." All three of his answers are based on the same underlying principle, a principle which King Benjamin also exemplified and taught: Don't take more than you should. Discipline yourself to not abuse the power you have.