Aid understanding- Enrich lives

Referring to the Savior's analogy likening obedience to His teachings to building one's house upon a rock (Matt. 7:24-27), Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin commented Saturday morning, "We cannot have the fruits of the gospel without its roots."Regarding the roots of the gospel, Elder Wirthlin of the Council of the Twelve said: "They give us direction. [The SaviorT has taught us how we should build our lives on a solid foundation, like a rock, that will withstand the temptations and storms of life."

The apostle then discussed some of the major principles of the gospel: the Godhead, resurrection, parenting, Word of Wisdom, welfare principles, missionary work and chastity.

"God truly is our Father, the Father of the spirits of all mankind. We have inherited divine characteristics from Him. Knowing our relationship to our Heavenly Father helps us understand the divine nature that is in us and our potential."

Pertaining to Christ, he said: "Knowing that Jesus Christ is the firstborn Son of God in the spirit and the Only Begotten Son in the flesh gives a far more noble and majestic view of Him than if He were just a great teacher or philosopher."

He added: "We should be everlastingly grateful to Him. We should love Him with all our hearts and should follow His example each day."

Elder Wirthlin explained that the Holy Ghost, the third member of the Godhead, is a revelator and a witness of the truthfulness of the gospel and the divinity of Jesus Christ.

The reality of the resurrection is a "center point of hope in the gospel of Jesus Christ," he said. He told of the serenity of a mother after the untimely death of her 2-year-old daughter. "She was confident that this sweet child was encompassed in the arms of God's love and that she and her daughter would be together again," he said.

Regarding welfare principles, Elder Wirthlin said concern for the poor of the earth is a sure indicator of true religion. He encouraged the cultivation of self-reliance to put oneself in a position to help others.

After speaking about each of the other principles, Elder Wirthlin, said: "Let me offer this advice and promise. Never be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Partake of the sacrament worthily. Always remember our Lord and Savior. Never defame His sacred name. Do not ridicule the sacredness of the holy priesthood and ordinances of the gospel. If you honor this counsel, the spirit of rebellion will never come into your hearts.

" . . . In addition, if you will sustain the Lord's anointed, your confidence in them will wax strong. Your families and your posterity will be blessed and strengthened. The abundant fruits of the gospel will enrich your lives. Peace and unity will fill your hearts and homes."