September Presidency Message

It is hard to believe that summer is almost over and that fall is upon us. When
I was younger, I always got excited when I felt that first chill in the air, because it meant
school was about to begin again. I have always loved learning and thankfully, the gospel
plan encourages us to continually seek learning and greater understanding of the
mysteries of Godliness. “If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation,
knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries and peaceable things—
that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal, D&C 42:61.” The more truth
we possess, the greater our chances of living righteously. Bruce R. McConkie explains in
his book, The Millennial Messiah: “False beliefs invite wicked deeds. True beliefs lead to
a life of righteousness.” Knowledge of truth gives us power to recognize and overcome
evil. This is why it is crucial that we continually read, study and share gospel truths with
our families and with each other. To those who serve the Lord in righteousness and truth,
he will, “reveal all mysteries, yea, all the hidden mysteries of my kingdom from days of
old, and for ages to come. . . even the wonders of eternity shall they know, and things to
come will I show them. . . even those things which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor
yet entered into the heart of man. D&C 76:5-10.” I can’t think of anything more
exciting.

It takes great faith to believe that the things of this world are only temporary.
It takes great faith to believe that a heavenly mansion is of greater worth than an earthly
one and that God’s favor means more than receiving the favor of men. The adversary
wants us to believe that wealth and popularity are of primary importance and that our
outward circumstances define us. We need constant reminders of what this life is really
about, that it really is a test. Part of that test is to see if we will love and serve the Lord at
every hazard. Daily scripture reading not only helps us keep that divine perspective, but
literally adds spirit element to our souls which gives us the power to be good.

Heavenly Father needs a refined and prepared people to help usher in the
Millennial Day. I have long been impressed with the words of Elder Boyd K. Packer,
“If some of us understood what some of these young people are going to be called to do
in this life, we would feel intimidated to teach them. The very trials we are experiencing
may be just what we need to strengthen and refine us for that great day. We need to be
ready and strong for that which lies ahead. We need to become proficient in hearing and
heeding the voice of the Spirit. For the righteous, it will be a day of great reward and
joy, especially for his righteous daughters: “Mortal eye cannot see nor mind comprehend,
the beauty, glory and majesty of a righteous woman made perfect in the Celestial
Kingdom of God.” James E. Talmage

With Love,
Vicki Robinson