Follow the Prophet

Thought I would post the link to this talk since it was referenced three times in Conference.

The fourteen fundamentals in following the Prophet -President Ezra Taft Benson

President Thomas S. Monson

His voice-the most important scripture.

1. The prophet is the only man who speaks for the Lord in everything.

2. The living prophet is more vital to us than the standard works.

3. The living prophet is more important to us than a dead prophet.

4. The prophet will never lead the church astray.

5. The prophet is not required to have any particular earthly training or credentials to speak on any subject or act on any matter at any time.

6. The prophet does not have to say “Thus Saith the Lord,” to give us scripture.

7. The prophet tells us what we need to know, not always what we want to know.

8. The prophet is not limited by men’s reasoning.

9. The prophet can receive revelation on any matter, temporal or spiritual.

10. The prophet may advise on civic matters.

11. The two groups who have the greatest difficulty in following the prophet are the proud who are learned and the proud who are rich.

12. The prophet will not necessarily be popular with the world or the worldly.

13. The prophet and his counselors make up the First Presidency—the highest quorum in the Church.

14. The prophet and the presidency—the living prophet and the First Presidency—follow them and be blessed—reject them and suffer.

*Each prophet seems to have vauable experiences and revelation specific to the generation they preside over. I was pondering President Monsons stories of caring for the 84 widows and trying to see how it relates to our situation and what valuable direction it gives us. I think he is trying to tell us that the best way to get through these trying economic and uncertain times is through service.

As the Savior taught, "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” (Luke 9:24) So as President Monson lost his life in service to the 84 widows he brought great purpose to his life and happiness during a challenging time and ultimately found his life.

I know in difficult times I have a tendency to become so focused on my needs not being met that I can't hear the distress cries of others. I also know that when I only live for myself i never move forward and have an apathetic outlook on life as I have no purpose. The Prophet knows our needs and that they can be met through service to others.

I like what I read on another blog:

Often we live side by side but do not communicate heart to heart. There are those within the sphere of our own influence who, with outstretched hands, cry out, “Is there no balm in Gilead?” (emphasis added)

This seems to be counsel that we need to go beyond the shallow conversation of everyday if we are to comfort those with deep hurt. Even if we can’t take away another person’s struggle, we can alleviate their loneliness and isolation, which will make life easier for them to bear. Communicating heart to heart is another way that we can escape that shriveling self-centered focus.

I'm grateful to friends, family and the Gospel that allow me the chance to serve so I can live a purpose filled life.