Sister Cook: 'Never give up'
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"Have you ever been afraid and discouraged as you've faced a challenge that seemed far beyond your ability? Have you ever wanted to give up?" Sister Mary N. Cook, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency, asked the young women gathered in the Conference Center March 27.
"My counsel to you," Sister Cook said, "is similar to that given by Winston Churchill during World War II: Never, never, never give up!"
Sister Cook told the young women this fortitude "will take great courage, but you have the plan of salvation."
Sister Cook talked about three things young women can do to help them follow the plan and be a valiant and virtuous daughter of God.
First, they must gain a strong testimony, step by step.
Sister Cook quoted the "True to the Faith" pamphlet, which says that a testimony is strengthened gradually. "'No one receives a complete testimony all at once.'"
"Personal Progress," she said, "provides a wonderful way for you to nourish your testimony step by step. Value experiences and projects are small steps that will nourish your testimony of Jesus Christ as you learn His teachings and regularly apply them in your life."
The second thing young women can do to help them follow God's plan is to seek the help of others who will support them in their decision to follow the plan. "Look first to your Heavenly Father through prayer. You are His daughter. He knows you and loves you. He hears and answers your prayers."
Sister Cook noted that there might be times when the young women make mistakes or start down a wrong path. She quoted the Young Women Personal Progress manual, which states, "Because the Savior loves you and has given His life for you, you can repent … The Savior's atoning sacrifice has made it possible for you to be forgiven of your sins."
Latter-day prophets, families and good friends can also support young women in their decision to follow the plan, she said.
Finally, living worthy of the companionship of the Holy Ghost will help young women follow the plan.
"You will need that peace and assurance [given by the Holy Ghost] when Satan tries to confuse you with winds of doubt, when you are tempted to take another path, or when others are unkind or mock you for your beliefs."
Sister Cook concluded by saying, "I testify that if you will do these things, the Lord will be with you and you will be able to stay on the path that leads to the temple and to eternal life. 'Be strong and of a good courage' and never, never, never give up!"
