Search for truth
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It is important to know what truth is so correct decisions can be made, according to Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve.
He said during the Sunday afternoon session, "Since truth is the only meaningful foundation upon which we can make wise decisions, how then can one establish what is really true?"
The increasing barrage of conflicting information coming especially from the media and the Internet, as well as more and more emphasis on what is socially acceptable and politically correct, is confusing the search for truth, Elder Scott said.
He mentioned two ways to find truth — the scientific method which involves experimentation to try to prove theory, and going to the origin of all truth, the Lord, and asking for or responding to inspiration.
For success in the second method, he said, "two ingredients are essential: first, unwavering faith in the Source of all truth; second, a willingness to keep God's commandments to keep open spiritual communication with Him."
Much has been learned about God's creations through the scientific method, Elder Scott pointed out. But much more has been learned through revealed truth through prophets who have had a perfect view of God's creations, such as Enoch and Moses.
Elder Scott said, "He also explained why He had created them. 'For behold, this is my work and my glory — to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man"' (Moses 1:39).
Nevertheless, Elder Scott said, "A knowledge of truth is of little value unless we apply it in making correct decisions."
As an example, he invited the congregation to consider "a man, heavily overweight, approaching a bakery display. In his mind are these thoughts: 'The doctor told you not to eat any more of that. It's not good for you. It gives you momentary gratification of appetite. You'll feel uncomfortable all the rest of the day after it. You've decided not have have any more.' But then he hears himself say, 'I'll have two of those almond twists and a couple of doughnuts. One more time won't hurt. I'll do it just once more and this will be the last time."'
Continuing, Elder Scott said, "The process of identifying truth sometimes necessitates enormous effort coupled with profound faith in Our Father and His Glorified Son. God intended that it be so to forge your worthy character." Worthy character, he added, "enables you in times of trial and testing to make difficult, extremely important decisions correctly even when they seem overpowering.
"I testify that neither Satan nor any other power can weaken or destroy your growing character. Only you can do that through disobedience. Understand and apply this vital principle to your life: Your exercise of faith builds character. Fortified character expands your capacity to exercise greater faith. Thus, your confidence in making correct decisions is enhanced.
"And the strengthening cycle continues. The more your character is fortified, the more enabled you are to exercise the power of faith for yet stronger character."
