Priesthood Session: Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin
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By following five principles, young men who bear the Aaronic Priesthood can grow into the priesthood and become the kind of men Heavenly Father desires.
Elder Wirthlin received a gift of a football uniform while growing up during the Depression. While he would pack the helmet with cotton and newspaper, it would fall off when he was tackled. His mother told him to be grateful for what he had and that eventually he would grow into the uniform. Like the uniform, priesthood responsibilities are something that young men can grow into.
Elder Wirthlin outlined the five principles:
• Young men should place Heavenly Father first in their lives.
"God's commandments are not given to limit or punish us," he said. "If we keep them, we can become spiritual giants, strong and bold in righteousness."
• Come unto Christ and follow him as the Savior and Redeemer. Young men should spend time pondering and studying the scriptures each day for the rest of their lives.
• Nurture the companionship of the Holy Ghost.
Young men should avoid anything degrading or substances forbidden by the Word of Wisdom. These deaden the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
• Love and revere Joseph Smith as the great prophet of the Restoration.
• Love, follow and be loyal to God's living prophet. He is inspired to teach all things that are necessary to live happily and righteously.
