Messages of inspiration from President Thomas S. Monson
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True service
An abiding faith, a constant trust, a fervent desire have always characterized those who serve the Lord with all their hearts. — "Tears, Trials, Trust, Testimony," April 1987 general conference; Ensign, May 1987, 42
Seas of life
Like the vital rudder of a ship, we have been provided a way to determine the direction we travel. The lighthouse of the Lord beckons to all as we sail the seas of life. Our home port is the celestial kingdom of God. Our purpose is to steer an undeviating course in that direction. A man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder — never likely to reach home port. To us comes the signal: Chart your course, set your sail, position your rudder, and proceed. — "Sailing Safely the Seas of Life." April 1982 general conference; Ensign, May 1982, 59
Building an eternal home
In a very real sense, we are builders of eternal houses. We are apprentices to the trade — not skilled craftsmen. We need divine help if we are to build successfully. The words of instruction provided by the Apostle Paul give the assurance we need: "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16). — "Your Eternal Home," April 2000 general conference; Ensign, May 2000, 52
Sons and daughters of God
"Created in the image of God" is not simply an idle phrase, but rather a noble truth. When this knowledge becomes yours, you will have achieved what the great English statesman, William H. Gladstone, declared as the world's greatest need: "A living faith in a personal God." — "From Here to Eternity," BYU Commencement, April 24, 1997
Influence for good
Expand your knowledge, both intellectual and spiritual, to the full stature of your divine potential. There is no limit to your influence for good. Share your talents, for that which we willingly share, we keep. But that which we selfishly keep, we lose. — "The Spirit of Relief Society," Relief Society Sesquicentennial Conference, March 14, 1992
Called to serve
When the Savior was to choose a missionary of zeal and power, He found him not among His advocates but amidst His adversaries. Saul of Tarsus — the persecutor — became Paul the proselytizer. The Redeemer chose imperfect men to teach the way to perfection. He did so then; He does so now.
He calls you and me to serve Him here below and sets us to the task He would have us fulfill. The commitment is total. There is no conflict of conscience.
As we follow that Man of Galilee — even the Lord Jesus Christ — our personal influence will be felt for good wherever we are, whatever our callings. — "Your Personal Influence," April 2004 general conference; Ensign, May 2004, 20
Solemn responsibility
My brethren, the priesthood is a gift which brings with it not only special blessings but also solemn responsibilities. It is our responsibility to conduct our lives so that we are ever worthy of the priesthood we bear. We live in a time when we are surrounded by much that is intended to entice us into paths which may lead to our destruction. To avoid such paths requires determination and courage. — "The Priesthood — a Sacred Gift," Priesthood Meeting, April 2007 general conference; Ensign, May 2007, 57–60
