Repentance is a conduit to the reforming power of the Lord and when used and understood, a "dear and precious friend," Elder Richard G. Scott said Saturday afternoon.

Elder Richard G. Scott

The Savior gave His life, declared Elder Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve, that repentance might be used to bless every child of God. "This subject is widely misunderstood and often feared. Some feel that it is to be employed only by those in serious transgression while the Lord intended that it be consistently used by every one of His children.

"Repentance is not optional," Elder Scott continued. "Each one of us is commanded to both repent and to call upon God continually throughout life. That pattern allows each day to be an unspoiled page in the book of life, a new, fresh opportunity. We are given the rejuvenating privilege of overcoming mistakes of commission or omission, be they small or profoundly serious. One can feel the cleansing, the purity, the freshness that accompanies sincere repentance at any time of life.

"Why has Our Father and His Son commanded us to repent? Because they love us. They know all will violate eternal laws. Whether they be small or large, justice requires that every broken law be satisfied to retain the promise of joy in this life and the privilege of returning to Father in Heaven. It is our Master and His redeeming act that makes it possible for us to avoid such condemnation. It is through faith in Jesus Christ, obedience to His commandments, and enduring in righteousness to the end."

To those who might be feeling despondence or turmoil, or who may lack spiritual direction, Elder Scott suggested there may be broken laws. "If needed, full repentance will put your life together. It will solve all of the complex spiritual pains that come from transgression."

Continuing, Elder Scott spoke of the steps of repentance — recognition, sorrow, abandonment, confession, restitution where possible. He also added the important step of keeping the commandments. "Great reinforcement and a sustaining power to succeed come when there is a determination to keep all of the commandments. The Lord expects a lifelong commitment to obey the plan of happiness including continuing repentance as needed."

Speaking of the importance of each step of repentance, Elder Scott explained: "To feel sorrow and be motivated to confess is a proper beginning, but it is not sufficient. It does no good for an individual to stonewall efforts of a judge in Israel to encourage repentance by denying that a real transgression has occurred or by otherwise being unyielding. There must be humility and sorrow."

Then, after urging members to read and study The Miracle of Forgiveness by President Spencer W. Kimball, Elder Scott emphasized that once a person has truly repented, he or she is truly forgiven by the Lord. "To you who have sincerely repented yet continue to feel a burden of guilt, realize that to continue to suffer for sins when there has been proper repentance and forgiveness of the Lord, is prompted by the master of deceit.

"I testify that Jesus Christ paid the price and will satisfy the demands of justice for all who are obedient to His teachings. Thus, full forgiveness is granted, and the distressing effects of sin need no longer persist in one's life.