Elder Robert D. Hales
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Despite the current strain of "perilous times" throughout the world, Latter-day Saint families can be at peace. "If we do what's right, we will be guided and protected."
Just as father Lehi feared for the eternal welfare of his unrighteous sons, "Every parent faces moments of such fear. However, when we exercise our faith by teaching our children and doing what we can to help them, our fears will diminish . . . We should not let their choices weaken our faith. Our worthiness will not be measured according to their righteousness."
No family has attained perfection as members exercise their gift of agency. All families suffer the effects of mortality.
Ideally, children are led through teaching and example to the temple. "What they learned from us, they will teach their children, and the work of eternal families will go on."
Five important elements of parenting will help in strengthening families: family councils to share genuine interest in the lives of each family member; keeping hearts open through understanding, compassion, forgiveness and through expressions of love and concern; teaching from the scriptures and likening family circumstances to them; taking advantage of teaching moments by inviting the spirit of the Lord to guide conversations with children; and trusting the Good Shepherd to guide and direct in parental responsibilities. Even wayward children are within the reach of the Savior's love.
