Those who have a quiet, uncompromising determination to live a righteous life will discover inspiration and power beyond understanding, said Elder Richard G. Scott of the Council of the Twelve.

Speaking primarily to the young men and young women of the Church during the Saturday afternoon session, Elder Scott said, "Your circumstances and personal challenges vary tremendously, yet each of you is in that period of life when you make decisions that will effect the entire course of your life."I commend you who . . . have committed to be true to the Lord and to live by faith when you cannot see the end from the beginning. I know you are criticized by those who call you fanatical, who cannot understand why you don't do what the crowd does. Hold fast to your principles.

"To others, if an honest evaluation of your life reveals a continuing dependency on individuals or things that are not good, please listen. I sincerely want to help you."

He shared with the youth three principles, promising them that "if you understand and use the principles we will now review, they will bring you great reward."

First, "place the Savior, His teachings, and His Church at the center of your life. Make sure that all decisions comply with this standard.

Second, "recognize that enduring happiness comes from what you are, not from what you have."

Third, "stay morally clean. Sexual intimacy outside of the bonds of marriage, and I emphasize that means any involvement of the private, sacred parts of the body, is forbidden by God.

"Satan will use rationalization to destroy you. That is, he will twist something you know to be wrong so that it appears to be acceptable and thus progressively lead you to destruction.

"How can you keep your resolve to live worthily?" Elder Scott asked.

He advised the youth to choose good friends. Choose "those like yourself who are wise enough to live a life of order and restraint. Be surrounded by true friends who accept you the way you are and leave you better because of their association."

Don't be found in compromising circumstances, he advised. Seek counsel from those who are worthy. Pray in faith for help. Elder Scott admonished the young women to use the Young Women values and the scriptures, and the young men to use the scriptures regarding the priesthood to give their life focus.

"As a mighty eagle you can live and rise to the great heights others have accomplished and even beyond them."

One of the greatest blessings that comes from the decision to obey is finding "in your being a love for your Father in Heaven and His son, Jesus Christ, that becomes stronger and stronger until all you truly want is to find out what they would have you do and, with their help, do it."