Near the conclusion of his epistle to the Romans, Paul listed many attributes of those who would identify themselves as followers of Jesus Christ and counseled members of the early Church regarding how "to live as becometh saints." (See chapter heading, Romans 12.)

Through the ages, people have relied on lists to inform them of acceptable or unacceptable behavior. For the children of Israel, for example, laws contained almost countless acts they should or should not do, including the distance they were allowed to walk on the Sabbath. In modern times, many members tend to desire lists. For example, they ask what is permissible activity for the Sabbath or precisely what, beyond that which is recorded in Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants, is or isn't allowed by the Word of Wisdom. Scriptures give some specific direction and the Brethren offer general counsel; however, there is not a comprehensive list of what is or is not allowed in these and many other matters.

Most likely, Paul did not intend for his list to be all-inclusive. Nevertheless, it contains much that gave the saints of the earlier days direction in the newly established Church of Jesus Christ. Surviving the test of time, his list contains much sound counsel for followers of Jesus Christ in the latter days.

If we follow Paul's counsel we, among other attributes, will: have love that is sincere or without pretense, abhor evil and cleave to good, be kind to others, avoid sloth, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord, rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, continue in prayer, be hospitable, bless those who persecute us, not curse, rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep, be not "wise in [our] own conceits," refuse to repay evil with evil, be honest, live peaceably with all men "if it be possible," refrain from seeking vengeance, give food and drink to our enemies who are hungry and thirsty, and overcome evil with good. (See Romans 12:9-21.)

Further, we will be obedient, pay our debts, keep the commandments, awake and cast off the works of darkness, put on the armor of light, walk in honesty and decency, "put . . . on Jesus Christ," and deny the lusts of the flesh. (See Romans 13:1-14.)

And yet further, if we follow Paul's counsel, we will avoid doubtful disputations and unrighteous judgment of each other (Romans 14:1-5), and fellowship one another (Romans 15:1-2).

We would be better Church members, and better people in general, if we implemented Paul's counsel. Living the gospel, however, goes beyond following a list.

The Lord said, "For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward" (Doctrine and Covenants 58:26).

Elder Ezra Taft Benson said: "Usually the Lord gives us the overall objectives to be accomplished and some guidelines to follow, but He expects us to work out most of the details and methods. The methods and procedures are usually developed through study and prayer and by living so that we can obtain and follow the promptings of the Spirit. Less spiritually advanced people, such as those in the days of Moses, had to be commanded in many things. Today those spiritually alert look at the objectives, check the guidelines laid down by the Lord and by His prophets, and then prayerfully act — without having to be commanded 'in all things.' " (See Conference Report, April 1965.)

Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost is a sure way for us to know what the Lord would have us do.

In a dream or vision in February 1847, Joseph Smith appeared to Brigham Young. He asked the Prophet if he had a message for the Brethren. The Prophet said: "Tell the people to be humble and faithful, and to be sure to keep the spirit of the Lord and it will lead them right. Be careful and not turn away the still small voice; it will teach them what to do and where to go; it will yield the fruits of the kingdom. Tell the Brethren to keep their hearts open to conviction, so that when the Holy Ghost comes to them, their hearts will be ready to receive it."

The Prophet further said: "They can tell the Spirit of the Lord from all other spirits; it will whisper peace and joy to their souls; it will take malice, hatred, strife and all evil from their hearts; and their whole desire will be to do good, bring forth righteousness and build up the kingdom of God." (Quoted by Elder James E. Faust, April 1989 General Conference, from Manuscript History of Brigham Young: 1846-47, pp. 528-31.)

How telling that the Prophet did not give a detailed list of things members and the Brethren were to do but, instead, gave counsel pertaining to guidance by the Holy Ghost, to listening to the promptings of the Spirit of the Lord.

Instead of commanding us in all things, the Lord provides a guide — the Holy Ghost — to be our constant companion who will help us find, and remain on, the path of righteousness leading back to our heavenly home.