The peace for which men yearn, but which is often elusive, is in reality a practical principle that can be a normal part of life, said Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Council of the Twelve.

Elder Wirthlin, addressing the Saturday afternoon session, encouraged members to find peace through living the precepts of the gospel."We can be calm and serene regardless of the swirling turmoil all about us," he emphasized. "Attaining harmony within ourselves depends upon our relationship with the Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, and our willingness to emulate Him by living the principles He has given us."

Among the obstacles to personal peace is divorce with its attendant heartaches, "especially among the innocent children caught in the middle." Other obstacles include wayward children, financial problems, sin and wickedness.

"The value of peace in our hearts cannot be measured," said Elder Wirthlin. "When we are at peace, we can be free of worry and fear, knowing that with the Lord's help, we can do all that is expected or required of us. . . . We can have freedom to be happy."

Peace reigned on earth during two remarkable periods of time, said Elder Wirthlin. In each case, peace "began in the hearts of the righteous, obedient individuals and grew until it engulfed a society." These periods of peace came with the City of Enoch and with the Nephites following the visit of the resurrected Savior. Both groups of people were of one heart, just and happy.

"A third period of perfect peace will come during the Millennium. As they live the gospel of Jesus Christ, the righteousness of the people will banish Satan from their midst.

"These three instances show that peace, whether in a city, a nation, or other society, develops from peace that begins within the hearts of individuals as they live the gospel," Elder Wirthlin observed.

He cautioned, however, that peace cannot come to members who procrastinate their obligations. Nor can it come to those who break the commandments.

"How much mental anguish results from a little lying, cheating, or stealing even if they are never discovered?" he asked. "Do we have peace of mind if we knowingly violate traffic laws? Do we have peace of mind if we are not honest with our employers and do not give fair value for the pay we receive?"

Latter-day Saints, he continued, "are obligated to seek inner peace not only for the blessing it is to them but so they can radiate its influence to others.

"We can enjoy that peace of God which passeth human understanding," Elder Wirthlin testified. "We can enjoy it personally, within our families, in our communities, in our nations, and in our world if we will do the things that produce it."