Obey the commandments

- Have faith in Christ

- Begin now to heal

The secret of solving problems in one's life is found in understanding and using the eternally beneficial interaction of agency and God's truth, said Elder Richard G. Scott of the Council of the Twelve.

Addressing the Sunday morning session, Elder Scott quoted from D&C 93:28, 37, 39: "He that keepeth . . . [theT commandments receiveth truth and light . . . Light and truth forsake that evil one . . . and that wicked one cometh and taketh away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men. . . ."

Elder Scott asked, "Instead of enjoying the countless edifying experiences, precious wholesome relationships and the wondrous beauties of the earth the Lord has given for our happiness, do you pursue excitement beyond the bounds He has set?"

Elder Scott counseled that God "defended our right to choose our path in life so that we would grow, develop, and be happy, but we do not have the right to choose the consequences of our acts.

"Our Heavenly Father gave us truth, some as statements of cause and effect. We call them commandments.

"If you are trapped and there seems to be no way out, remember what Robert Frost taught, `The only way out is through,' " Elder Scott exhorted. "You must face and conquer the challenge. The way through is based on faith in Jesus Christ and obedience to His commandments.

"It is the only way to permanently cure the damage to mind and spirit caused by unrighteous acts. It also provides healing, within the bounds of eternal truth, to a body devastated by the effects of transgression."

He explained that change is hard, "but know you can do it. You may wonder why you are not believed when you decide to change from a life of disobedience to one of integrity and compliance to truth. Recognize that it takes time to build a reputation that overcomes the effects of past decisions to deceive and take advantage of others - but it is worth it."

Elder Scott offered counsel on how to know when advice from others is good. Ask yourself these questions:

- What motivates the offer of help?

- Does your common sense confirm it is right? If so it will be consistent with the teachings of the Savior.

- Has the advice offered been followed in the giver's life? Has it improved the quality of that life?

"How can one decide when to help you and when to let you grow from facing reality?" he asked. "The Lord has provided the answer. When you show genuine remorse, a contrite heart, a recognition of guilt, movement in the direction of improvement even though there may be slippage, when there is acceptance of responsibility for improper acts - support and help are needed and will be productive."

"It is one thing to know how to heal your life. It is quite another to do it," Elder Scott declared.

"As you gain confidence, see your bishop who holds keys that will help you. Begin now and don't stop until you understand and live the teachings of the Savior and receive His healing in your life."