Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
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All priesthood holders must be instruments in the hand of God and to be so, you must — as Joshua said — "Sanctify yourself." You must be ready and worthy to act.
"The day may come — indeed, I am certain will come — when in an unexpected circumstance or a time of critical need, lightning will strike, so to speak, and a future may be in your hands — physically, spiritually, morally, or some other way. Be ready when that day comes. Be strong, Always be clean. Respect and revere the priesthood that you hold, tonight and forever."
The Lord repeatedly says in the scriptures, "Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord."
As priesthood bearers not only are we to handle sacred vessels and emblems of God's power, but we are also to be sanctified instruments as well.
"Now we live in an age when that cleanliness is more and more difficult to preserve."
The availability of VCRs, the Internet and personal computers mean today's amusements are fraught with genuine moral danger.
In the moral realm the only real control you have is self-control.
Not every prayer is answered immediately and not every priesthood declaration can command the renewal or the sustaining of life.
"Sometimes the will of God is otherwise, but young men, you will learn if you have not already, that in frightening, even perilous moments, your faith and your priesthood will demand the very best of you and the best you can call down from heaven."
