"All knowledge and wisdom and every good that the heart of man can desire is within the circuit and circle of the faith we have embraced."

- Brigham Young, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, (1997), 14–20
http://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-brigham-young/chapter-2?lang=eng

God will respond with what in His eternal plan is best for you

"As you walk to the boundary of your understanding into the twilight of uncertainty, exercising faith, you will be led to find solutions to the challenges of life you would not obtain otherwise. No matter how strong your faith is, God will not always reward you immediately according to your desires. Rather He will respond with what in His eternal plan is best for you. Your exercise of faith will forge strength of character available to you in times of critical need. Such character is not developed in moments of great challenge or temptation. That is when it is used."

- Elder Richard G. Scott, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Living Right," Ensign, Jan 2007, p. 12
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2007/01/living-right?lang=eng

"There is no obstacle too great, no challenge too difficult, that we cannot meet with faith."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, "God Grant Us Faith," General Conference, Oct 1983
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1983/10/god-grant-us-faith?lang=eng

"It is the faith within us that is evidenced in all we do."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, "The Miracle of Faith," General Conference, Apr 2001
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2001/04/the-miracle-of-faith?lang=eng

"Charity is having patience with someone who has let us down. It is resisting the impulse to become offended easily. It is accepting weaknesses and shortcomings. It is accepting people as they truly are. It is looking beyond physical appearances to attributes that will not dim through time. It is resisting the impulse to categorize others."

- Pres. Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church, "Charity Never Faileth," Ensign, Nov 2010, p. 124
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/11/charity-never-faileth?lang=eng

Giving thanks helps us recognize our blessings

"My brothers and sisters, do we remember to give thanks for the blessings we receive? Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God’s love."

- Pres. Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church, "The Divine Gift of Gratitude," Ensign, Nov 2010, p. 87
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/11/the-divine-gift-of-gratitude?lang=eng

"Nowhere are the generosity and the kindness and mercy of God more manifest than in repentance."

- Pres. Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Cleansing the Inner Vessel," Ensign, Nov 2010, p. 76
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/11/cleansing-the-inner-vessel?lang=eng

"We have been called to use divine power to serve the children of our Heavenly Father. How well we meet that obligation will have eternal consequences for those we are called to serve and for us and for generations yet unborn."

- Pres. Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, "Serve with the Spirit," Ensign, Nov 2010, p. 59
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/11/serve-with-the-spirit?lang=eng

"Your testimony, when constantly nourished, will keep you safe."

- Pres. Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church, "May You Have Courage," General Conference, Apr 2009
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/04/may-you-have-courage?lang=eng

Our homes become an incubator for our children’s spiritual growth

"When we follow the prophets’ counsel to hold family home evening, family prayer, and family scripture study, our homes become an incubator for our children’s spiritual growth. There we teach them the gospel, bear our testimonies, express our love, and listen as they share their feelings and experiences. By our righteous choices and actions, we liberate them from darkness by increasing their ability to walk in the light."

- Elder Robert D. Hales, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Agency: Essential to the Plan of Life," Ensign, Nov 2010, p. 26
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/11/agency-essential-to-the-plan-of-life?lang=eng

"...all honest work is the work of God."

- Elder D. Todd Christofferson, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Reflections on a Consecrated Life," Ensign, Nov. 2010, p. 17
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/11/reflections-on-a-consecrated-life?lang=eng

"Each [temple] is blessing the lives of our members and is an influence for good upon those not of our faith."

- Pres. Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church, "As We Meet Together Again," Ensign, Nov 2010, p. 4
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/11/as-we-meet-together-again?lang=eng

Material wealth and abundant free time are spiritual impediments

"I believe that the easy way materially usually is not the best way spiritually. For many, though not all, material wealth and abundant free time are spiritual impediments."

- Elder Dallin H. Oaks, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Adversity," BYU Devotional January 17, 1995
http://speeches.byu.edu/index.php?act=viewitem&id=575

Peace and prosperity can put a people to sleep

“Ours then seems to be the toughest test of all for the evils are more subtle, more clever. It all seems less menacing and it is harder to detect. While every test of righteousness represents a struggle, this particular test seems like no test at all, no struggle and so could be the most deceiving of all tests. Do you know what peace and prosperity can do to a people—it can put them to sleep” (Larry E. Dahl, “Fit for the Kingdom,” in Studies in Scripture, Volume Five: The Gospels, edited by Kent P. Jackson and Robert L. Millet [1986], 5:369).

- Pres. Ezra Taft Benson, as quoted in "Chapter 37: Helaman 10–12," Book of Mormon Student Manual, (2009), 274–80
http://www.lds.org/manual/book-of-mormon-student-manual/chapter-37-helaman-10-12?lang=eng

Luxury is probably the most severe test

“We’re tested and we’re tried. Perhaps we don’t realize the severity of the tests we’re going through. In the early days of the Church, there were murders committed, there were mobbings. The Saints were driven out into the desert. They were starving, they were unclad, and they were cold. We’re the inheritors of what they gave to us. But what are we doing with it? Today we’re basking in the lap of luxury, the like of which we’ve never seen before in the history of the world. It would seem that probably this is the most severe test of any we’ve ever had in the history of this Church” (Dahl, “Fit for the Kingdom,” in Studies in Scripture, 5:369).

- Harold B. Lee, as quoted in "Chapter 37: Helaman 10–12," Book of Mormon Student Manual, (2009), 274–80
http://www.lds.org/manual/book-of-mormon-student-manual/chapter-37-helaman-10-12?lang=eng

My greater fear for them is that they cannot stand wealth

“The worst fear that I have about this people is that they will get rich in this country, forget God and His people, wax fat, and kick themselves out of the Church and go to hell. This people will stand mobbing, robbing, poverty, and all manner of persecution, and be true. But my greater fear for them is that they cannot stand wealth; and yet they have to be tried with riches, for they will become the richest people on this earth” (reported in James S. Brown, Life of a Pioneer [1900], 122–23).

- Brigham Young, as quoted in "Brigham Young-Second President of the Church," Presidents of the Church Teacher Manual Religion 345, (2005), 21–36
http://www.lds.org/manual/presidents-of-the-church-teacher-manual-religion-345/brigham-young-second-president-of-the-church?lang=eng

"No amount of rationalization...can satisfy a disappointed Father in heaven."

- Pres. Spencer W. Kimball, President of the Church, "Guidelines to Carry Forth the Work of God in Cleanliness," General Conference, Apr 1974
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1974/04/guidelines-to-carry-forth-the-work-of-god-in-cleanliness?lang=eng

Motherhood is near to Divinity

'Now our mothers have a sacred role. The following is a partial quote from the First Presidency of the Church. We reaffirm it strongly:

'“Motherhood thus becomes a holy calling, a sacred dedication for carrying out the Lord’s plans, a consecration of devotion to the uprearing and fostering, the nurturing in body, mind, and spirit, of those who kept their first estate and who come to this earth for their second estate ‘to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them.’ (Abr. 3:25.) To lead them to keep their second estate is the work of motherhood, and ‘they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever.’

'“This divine service of motherhood can be rendered only by mothers. It may not be passed to others. Nurses cannot do it; public nurseries cannot do it; hired help cannot do it—only mother, aided as much as may be by the loving hands of father, brothers, and sisters, can give the full needed measure of watchful care.

'“The mother who entrusts her child to the care of others, that she may do non-motherly work, whether for gold, for fame, or for civic service should remember that ‘a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.’ (Prov. 29:15.) In our day the Lord has said that unless parents teach their children the doctrines of the Church ‘the sin be upon the heads of the parents.’ (D&C 68:25.)

'“Motherhood is near to Divinity. It is the highest, holiest service to be assumed by mankind. It places her who honors its holy calling and service next to the angels. To you mothers in Israel we say, God bless and protect you, and give you the strength and courage, the faith and knowledge, the holy love and consecration to duty, that shall enable you to fill to the fullest measure the sacred calling which is yours. To you mothers and mothers-to-be we say: Be chaste, keep pure, live righteously, that your posterity to the last generation may call you blessed.” (“Message of the First Presidency,” Deseret News Weekly Church Edition, October 1942, p. 5.)'

- Pres. Spencer W. Kimball, President of the Church, "Guidelines to Carry Forth the Work of God in Cleanliness," General Conference, Apr 1974
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1974/04/guidelines-to-carry-forth-the-work-of-god-in-cleanliness?lang=eng

"Profanity is the effort of a feeble brain to express itself forcibly."

To be a mother is her greatest vocation in life

"...to be a mother is her greatest vocation in life. She is a partner with God. No being has a position of such power and influence. She holds in her hands the destiny of nations, for to her comes the responsibility and opportunity of molding the nation’s citizens."

- Pres. Spencer W. Kimball, President of the Church, “Why Call Me Lord, Lord, and Do Not the Things Which I Say?,” General Conference, Apr 1975
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1975/04/why-call-me-lord-lord-and-do-not-the-things-which-i-say?lang=eng

Righteousness proceeds outward

"Develop spiritual strength in yourself, and there will be felicity in the family. Righteousness proceeds outward from the individual to the group. We will find that if we are converted (through studying, searching, and praying), our immediate desire is to want to help others. True conversion causes us to want to reach out to the living and to the deceased to do what we can to help in each case."

- Pres. Spencer W. Kimball, President of the Church, "Boys Need Heroes Close By," General Conference, Apr 1976
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1976/04/boys-need-heroes-close-by?lang=eng

Those who are careful and thoughtful in courtship will usually be careful and thoughtful in marriage

"Those who are careful and thoughtful in courtship will usually be careful and thoughtful in marriage. Those who thoughtfully enter the House of the Lord to be sealed for time and eternity are much less likely to experience divorce and difficulty, not only because of the influence of that sealing ceremony, but because usually they are better prepared for marriage in the first place. They have not only their young love for each other, but a common bond of love for the gospel of Jesus Christ which they knew before they knew each other. They also have some sense of the spirit of sacrifice and selflessness which underlies every happy marriage in countless ways."

- Pres. Spencer W. Kimball, President of the Church, "Boys Need Heroes Close By," General Conference, Apr 1976
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1976/04/boys-need-heroes-close-by?lang=eng

"As we keep the Sabbath day holy, magnify callings, pay tithes and offerings, welcome new members into Church circles, and invite friends and neighbors to learn gospel truths, we strengthen our faith. When we choose to abandon our sins and repent willingly, and when we fall to our knees in prayer in good times as well as in turbulent times, we develop strong faith."

- Elder L. Whitney Clayton, Of the First Quorum of the Seventy, “Help Thou Mine Unbelief,” General Conference, Oct 2001
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2001/10/help-thou-mine-unbelief?lang=eng

"Our faith is the foundation upon which all our spiritual lives rest. It should be the most important resource of our lives. Faith is not so much something we believe; faith is something we live."

- Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Shall He Find Faith on the Earth?," Ensign, Nov 2002, p. 83
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/11/shall-he-find-faith-on-the-earth?lang=eng

"Our faith is acquired through prayer with a sincere desire to draw close to God and trust in Him to bear our burdens."

- Elder Robert D. Hales, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Finding Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ," Ensign, Nov 2004, p. 73
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2004/10/finding-faith-in-the-lord-jesus-christ?lang=eng

"Faith is absolute confidence in that which is in absolute conformity to the will of heaven. When we combine that confidence with absolute action on our part, we have faith."

- Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Improving Our Prayers," Ensign, Mar 2004, p. 27
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/03/improving-our-prayers?lang=eng

"In exercising faith, we become cheerful and optimistic, charitable and courageous, because faith is the moving cause of all of these virtues."

- Pres. James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, "The Virtues of Righteous Daughters of God," General Conference, Apr 2003
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2003/04/the-virtues-of-righteous-daughters-of-god?lang=eng

“Never let your faith be difficult to detect.”

- Pres. J. Reuben Clark Jr., as quoted by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in "Teaching and Learning in the Church," Ensign, Jun 2007, p. 104
http://www.lds.org/liahona/2007/06/teaching-and-learning-in-the-church?lang=eng

Faith in the Lord is trust in the Lord

"[F]aith in the Lord Jesus Christ is a conviction and trust that God knows us and loves us and will hear our prayers and answer them with what is best for us.

"Faith in the Lord is trust in the Lord. We cannot have true faith in the Lord without also having complete trust in the Lord’s will and in the Lord’s timing."

- Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "The Atonement and Faith," Ensign, Apr 2010, p. 30
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/04/the-atonement-and-faith?lang=eng

"There’s one responsibility which no man can evade, that’s the responsibility of personal influence. … It’s what you are, not what you pretend to be that will bring people to investigate."

- David O. McKay, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay, (2011), 53
http://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-david-o-mckay/chapter-6?lang=eng

No more powerful missionary message then a happy life

"[T]here is no more powerful missionary message we can send to this world than the example of a loving and happy Latter-day Saint life. The manner and bearing, the smile and kindness of a faithful member of the Church brings a warmth and an outreach which no missionary tract or videotape can convey. People do not join the Church because of what they know. They join because of what they feel, what they see and want spiritually."

- Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles,  “Witnesses unto Me,” General Conference, Apr 2001
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2001/04/witnesses-unto-me?lang=eng

Those things were but for a moment

"We talk about our trials and troubles here in this life; but suppose that you could see yourselves thousands and millions of years after you have proved faithful to your religion during the few short years in this time, and have obtained eternal salvation and a crown of glory in the presence of God? Then look back upon your lives here, and see the losses, crosses, and disappointments, the sorrows … ; you would be constrained to exclaim, “but what of all that? Those things were but for a moment, and we are now here."

- Brigham Young, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, (1997), 177–82
http://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-brigham-young/chapter-25?lang=eng

Education prepares responsible, intelligent leaders

"One of the most important purposes of a university education is to prepare men and women to be responsible and intelligent leaders and participants in the lives of their families, in their Church, and in their communities. That kind of education is needed by young men and young women alike."

- Dallin H. Oaks, "Women and Education," Ensign, Mar 1975
http://www.lds.org/ensign/1975/03/insights/women-and-education?lang=eng

To recipients of BYU education

“You can’t repay your benefactors. You could not ever find them, and they wouldn’t take your money if you offered it. But you can from this day forward act so that your debt will be steadily reduced.

“First, wherever you may labor in life, give more than you take. Second, whoever is around you in life, find someone to help. And third, ask God to multiply the power of your efforts to give and to help.”

- Elder Henry B. Eyring, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "News of the Church," Ensign, Aug 2002, p. 76 
http://www.lds.org/ensign/print/2002/08/news-of-the-church?lang=eng&clang=eng

You will be blessed to feel directed toward certain learning

"Your life is carefully watched over, as was mine. The Lord knows both what He will need you to do and what you will need to know. He is kind and He is all-knowing. So you can with confidence expect that He has prepared opportunities for you to learn in preparation for the service you will give. You will not recognize those opportunities perfectly, as I did not. But when you put the spiritual things first in your life, you will be blessed to feel directed toward certain learning, and you will be motivated to work harder. You will recognize later that your power to serve was increased, and you will be grateful."

- Elder Henry B. Eyring, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Education for Real Life," Ensign, Oct 2002, p. 18-19
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/10/education-for-real-life?lang=eng

Sloppy language and sloppy ways go together

"Sloppy language and sloppy ways go together. Those who are truly educated have learned more than sciences, the humanities, law, engineering, and the arts. They carry with them a certain polish that marks them as loving the better qualities of life, a culture that adds luster to the mundane world of which they are a part, a patina that puts a quiet glow on what otherwise might be base metal."

- Gordon B. Hinckley, Stand A Little Taller, p. 78

Our first priority should go to spiritual learning

"It is clear that our first priority should go to spiritual learning. For us, reading the scriptures would come before reading history books. Prayer would come before memorizing those Spanish verbs. A temple recommend would be worth more to us than standing first in our graduating class. But it is also clear that spiritual learning would not replace our drive for secular learning.

"The Lord clearly values what you will find in that history book and in a text on political theory. Remember His words. He wants you to know “things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations” (D&C 88:79). And He favors not only Spanish verbs but the study of geography and demography. You remember that His educational charter requires that we have “a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms” (D&C 88:79). There is also an endorsement for questions we study in the sciences. It is clear that putting spiritual learning first does not relieve us from learning secular things. On the contrary, it gives our secular learning purpose and motivates us to work harder at it."

- Elder Henry B. Eyring, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Education for Real Life," Ensign, Oct 2002, p. 17
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/10/education-for-real-life?lang=eng

 “Perhaps the most valuable result of all education is the ability to make yourself do the thing you have to do, when it ought to be done, whether you like it or not.”

- Thomas Henry Huxley, in John Bartlett, comp., Familiar Quotations (1968), 725, as quoted in Ensign, Jan 2010, p. 66
http://www.lds.org/ensign/print/2010/01/latter-day-saint-voices?lang=eng&clang=eng

"There is an essence of the divine in the improvement of the mind."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, First Counselor in the First Presidency, "Rise to the Stature of the Divine within You," General Conference, Oct 1989
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1989/10/rise-to-the-stature-of-the-divine-within-you?lang=eng

"I know that the earth was created and that the Lord’s Church was restored so that families could be sealed and exalted as eternal entities."

- Elder Russell M. Nelson, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Nurturing Marriage," Ensign, May 2006, p. 36
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2006/05/nurturing-marriage?lang=eng

Cancellation of sealing does not affect children

“Please note that a cancellation of sealing of a wife to her husband does not affect children born in the covenant or previously sealed. Such children are entitled to birthright blessings, and if they remain worthy, are assured the right and privilege of eternal parentage regardless of what happens to their natural parents or the parents to whom they were sealed.”

- Pres. Ezra Taft Benson, [Letter to Deborah Milne’s family, as quoted in Reflections from a Broken Mirror, 146–47.], as quoted in "Children of Divorce" by Elaine Walton in the Aug 2002 Ensign
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/08/children-of-divorce?lang=eng#footnote7-22908_000_009

Do not let Goliath frighten you

"You are a child of God. You have His power within you to sustain you. You have the right to call upon God to protect you. Do not let Goliath frighten you. Stand your ground and hold your place, and you will be triumphant. As the years pass, you will look back with satisfaction upon the battles you have won in your individual lives."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, "Overpowering the Goliaths in Our Lives," Ensign, Jan 2002
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/01/overpowering-the-goliaths-in-our-lives?lang=eng

"Establish in the mind of a young person the powerful idea that he or she is a child of God and you have given self-respect and motivation to move against the problems of life."

- Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Powerful Ideas," Ensign, Nov 1995, p. 125
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1995/10/powerful-ideas?lang=eng

"Part of discipleship should be to become high-yield, low-maintenance members of the Church."

- Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "The Holy Ghost: Glorifying Christ," Ensign, Jul 2002, p. 60
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/07/the-holy-ghost-glorifying-christ?lang=eng

Discipleship requires us to be willing to stand alone

"Finally, brothers and sisters, in certain times and circumstances, discipleship requires us to be willing to stand alone! Our willingness to do so, here and now, is consistent with Christ’s kneeling alone, there and then, in Gethsemane. In the final atoning process, “none were with [Him]” (D&C 133:50; see also Matt. 26:38–45)."

- Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "The Seventh Commandment: A Shield," General Conference, Oct 2001
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2001/10/the-seventh-commandment-a-shield?lang=eng

"The devil has no power over us only as we permit him; the moment we revolt at anything which comes from God, the devil takes power."

- Joseph Smith, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, p. 214
http://www.lds.org/Static%20Files/PDF/Manuals/English/TchPresChurch-JSmith/CU_TchPresChurch_JSmith_21___36481_000_021.pdf

"[W]hat we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity."

- Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “According to the Desire of [Our] Hearts,” General Conference, Oct 1996
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1996/10/according-to-the-desire-of-our-hearts?lang=eng

Infants were too pure, too lovely, to live on earth

"The Lord takes many away, even in infancy, that they may escape the envy of man, and the sorrows and evils of this present world; they were too pure, too lovely, to live on earth; therefore, if rightly considered, instead of mourning we have reason to rejoice as they are delivered from evil, and we shall soon have them again."

- Joseph Smith, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, (2011), 171–81
http://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-joseph-smith/chapter-14?lang=eng

Assess the spiritual inclinations of the individuals you’re dating

"As you go through your dating and courting relationships, I would hope that you will assess the spiritual inclinations of the individuals you’re getting to know better. How is their testimony? How do they treat their parents? How do they treat their brothers and sisters? Do they respect authority? Do they love the Lord, His servants, and the scriptures? What plans do they have for their lives?

"It isn’t enough if they are handsome or beautiful, if they are rich or poor, what kind of car they drive, what kind of clothes they wear, what kind of athletic ability they have, or what kind of intellect they are. You should be seeking to understand the gifts they have that will be eternal in nature."

- Elder Robert D. Hales, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Gifts of the Spirit," Ensign, Feb 2002
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/02/gifts-of-the-spirit?lang=eng

"If you are old enough to date, you are old enough to know that your parents have not only the right but the sacred obligation, and they are under counsel from the leaders of the Church, to concern themselves with your dating habits.

"If you are mature enough to date, you are mature enough to accept without childish, juvenile argument their authority as parents to set rules of conduct for you.

"No sensible father would lend your new convertible to anybody, to go anywhere, to do anything, to come back anytime. If you are old enough to date, you are old enough to see the foolishness of parents who would lend their children on such an arrangement. Don’t ask your parents to permit you—their most precious possession—to go out on such flimsy agreements."

- Pres. Boyd K. Packer, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "You’re in the Driver’s Seat," New Era, Jun 2004, p. 6
http://www.lds.org/new-era/2004/06/youre-in-the-drivers-seat?lang=eng

The Book of Mormon will bring you closer to the Lord and His loving power

"Each individual who prayerfully studies the Book of Mormon can also receive a testimony of its divinity. In addition, this book can help with personal problems in a very real way. Do you want to get rid of a bad habit? Do you want to improve relationships in your family? Do you want to increase your spiritual capacity? Read the Book of Mormon! It will bring you closer to the Lord and His loving power."

- Elder Russell M. Nelson, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "A Testimony of the Book of Mormon," General Conference, Oct 1999
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1999/10/a-testimony-of-the-book-of-mormon?lang=eng

The Lord's message to you is embedded in the Book of Mormon

"I will make you this promise about reading the Book of Mormon: You will be drawn to it as you understand that the Lord has embedded in it His message to you."

- Elder Henry B. Eyring, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "The Book of Mormon Will Change Your Life," Ensign, Feb 2004
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/02/the-book-of-mormon-will-change-your-life?lang=eng

The Lord is waiting to be very gracious unto this people

"If the Latter-day Saints will walk up to their privileges, and exercise faith in the name of Jesus Christ, and live in the enjoyment of the fulness of the Holy Ghost constantly day by day, there is nothing on the face of the earth that they could ask for, that would not be given to them. The Lord is waiting to be very gracious unto this people, and to pour out upon them riches, honor, glory and power, even that they may possess all things according to the promises he has made through his Apostles and Prophets."

- Brigham Young, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, (1997), 54–59
http://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-brigham-young/chapter-8?lang=eng

The Christians were turned heathens again

“‘The real cause why the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost were no longer to be found in the christian church, was, because the christians were turned heathens again. …’ If then, the ‘whole of christendom,’ without one exception, have been ‘buried in the most abominable idolatry for upwards of eight hundred years,’ … And if they, because they are destitute of the gifts, are not even now christians, but heathens … , we ask where the authority was during this eight hundred years, and where is it now? Surely God would not recognise ‘the most abominable idolaters,’ as holding authority.”

- Elder Orson Pratt, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, quoting John Wesley's "Sermon 94," in Divine Authenticity of the Book of Mormon, no. 2 [1850], 21. As quoted by Elder Robert D. Hales, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, in "Gifts of the Spirit," Ensign, Feb 2002
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/02/gifts-of-the-spirit?lang=eng

We should regularly apply the Atonement for self-improvement

"We should regularly apply the Atonement for self-improvement, while enduring to the end. If we choose the course of steady improvement, which is clearly the course of discipleship, we will become more righteous and can move from what may be initially a mere acknowledgment of Jesus on to admiration of Jesus, then on to adoration of Jesus, and finally to emulation of Jesus."

- Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Testifying of the Great and Glorious Atonement," Ensign, Oct 2001
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/10/testifying-of-the-great-and-glorious-atonement?lang=eng

A good attitude produces good results

"Remember, a good attitude produces good results, a fair attitude fair results, a poor attitude poor results. We each shape our own life, and the shape of it is determined largely by our attitude."

- Elder M. Russell Ballard, Of the Seventy, "Providing for Our Needs," General Conference, Apr 1981
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/1981/04/providing-for-our-needs?lang=eng

"[A]ll who attain to any glory whatever, in any kingdom, will do so because Jesus has purchased it by his atonement."

- Brigham Young, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, (1997), 36–40
http://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-brigham-young/chapter-5?lang=eng

"The overwhelming message of the Atonement is the perfect love the Savior has for each and all of us. It is a love which is full of mercy, patience, grace, equity, long-suffering, and, above all, forgiving."

- Pres. James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, "The Atonement: Our Greatest Hope," Ensign, Nov 2001
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/11/the-atonement-our-greatest-hope

The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the central act of all human history

"The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the central act of all human history. It is the core of the plan of salvation. Without the infinite Atonement, all mankind would be irretrievably lost."

- Elder Russell M. Nelson, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Prepare for Blessings of the Temple," Ensign, Mar 2002
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/03/prepare-for-blessings-of-the-temple?lang=eng

God will save all who are determined to be saved

"Let those apostatize who wish to, but God will save all who are determined to be saved (DBY, 86)."

- Brigham Young, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, (1997), 78–84
http://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-brigham-young/chapter-12?lang=eng

One of the first steps to apostasy is to find fault with your Bishop

"One of the first steps to apostasy is to find fault with your Bishop; and when that is done, unless repented of a second step is soon taken, and by and by the person is cut off from the Church, and that is the end of it. Will you allow yourselves to find fault with your Bishop? (DBY, 86)."

- Brigham Young, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, (1997), 78–84
http://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-brigham-young/chapter-12?lang=eng

Control your tempers

"I plead with you to control your tempers, to put a smile upon your faces, which will erase anger; speak out with words of love and peace, appreciation, and respect. If you will do this, your lives will be without regret. Your marriages and family relationships will be preserved. You will be much happier. You will do greater good. You will feel a sense of peace that will be wonderful."


- President Gordon B. Hinckley, Prophet, "Slow to Anger," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 62-63
http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=5f362bce258f5110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&hideNav=1

Heavenly Father’s top priority is His children

"Heavenly Father’s top priority is His children. If it’s important to you, it’s important to Him. Whatever concern you have is His concern. Whatever you have a question about, the Lord knows the answer. Whatever sadness you are feeling, He knows how you feel and will ease the pain. He knows what it’s like to feel all alone. He will comfort you."

- Sharon G. Larsen, Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, "Your Celestial Guide," Ensign, May 2001, p. 88
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/05/your-celestial-guide?lang=eng

Women have an inherent authority to be the saviors of human souls

“You sisters … belong to the great sorority of saviorhood. You may not hold the priesthood. Men are different, men have to have something given to them to make them saviors of men, but not mothers, not women. You are born with an inherent right, an inherent authority, to be the saviors of human souls. You are the co-creators with God of his children. Therefore, it is expected of you by a right divine that you be the saviors and the regenerating force in the lives of God’s children here upon the earth.”

- Elder Matthew Cowley, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Matthew Cowley Speaks (1954), 109. As quoted in Preparing for an Eternal Marriage Teacher Manual, (2003), 47–50 
http://www.lds.org/manual/preparing-for-an-eternal-marriage-teacher-manual/13-divine-roles-and-responsibilities-of-men-and-women?lang=eng


After quoting most of the above, Sheri Dew added:
"Motherhood is not what was left over after our Father blessed His sons with priesthood ordination. It was the most ennobling endowment He could give His daughters, a sacred trust that gave women an unparalleled role in helping His children keep their second estate. As President J. Reuben Clark Jr. declared, motherhood is 'as divinely called, as eternally important in its place as the Priesthood itself.'"
- Sheri L. Dew, Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, "Are We Not All Mothers?," Ensign, Nov 2001, p. 96. [J. Reuben Clark quote is from “Our Wives and Our Mothers in the Eternal Plan,” Relief Society Magazine, Dec. 1946, 801.]
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/11/are-we-not-all-mothers?lang=eng

Our safety lies in the virtue of our lives

"Our safety lies in the virtue of our lives. Our strength lies in our righteousness. God has made it clear that if we will not forsake Him, He will not forsake us. He, watching over Israel, slumbers not nor sleeps (see Ps. 121:4)."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, “Till We Meet Again,” Ensign, Nov 2001, p. 90
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/11/till-we-meet-again?lang=eng

Children are the most significant contribution a woman makes to the world

"I hope that every wife will look to her husband as her dear companion, the star of her life, her supporter, her protector, her companion with whom she walks hand in hand “equally yoked.” I hope that she will look to her children as sons and daughters of God, the most significant contribution she has made to the world, her greatest concern with regard to their achievements, and more precious than any other thing she has or could hope for."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, “Till We Meet Again,” Ensign, Nov 2001, p. 89
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/11/till-we-meet-again?lang=eng

A testimony is the very essence of character woven from threads born of countless correct decisions

"A testimony is fortified by spiritual impressions that confirm the validity of a teaching, of a righteous act, or of a warning of pending danger. Often such guidance is accompanied by powerful emotions that make it difficult to speak and bring tears to the eyes. But a testimony is not emotion. It is the very essence of character woven from threads born of countless correct decisions. These choices are made with trusting faith in things that are believed and, at least initially, are not seen. A strong testimony gives peace, comfort, and assurance. It generates the conviction that as the teachings of the Savior are consistently obeyed, life will be beautiful, the future secure, and there will be capacity to overcome the challenges that cross our path. A testimony grows from understanding truth, distilled from prayer and the pondering of scriptural doctrine. It is nurtured by living those truths in faith and the secure confidence that the promised results will be obtained."

- Elder Richard G. Scott, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "The Power of a Strong Testimony," Ensign, Nov 2001, p. 87
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/11/the-power-of-a-strong-testimony?lang=eng

"No amount of time in front of the mirror will make you as attractive as having the Holy Ghost with you."

- Sheri L. Dew, Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, "It Is Not Good for Man or Woman to Be Alone," Ensign, Nov 2001, p. 13
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/11/it-is-not-good-for-man-or-woman-to-be-alone?lang=eng

Prophets don't worry about youth who pray twice a day

"Our prophets have said that they don’t worry about the youth who pray twice a day. Now, if they don’t worry about us, then we don’t need to worry about ourselves, as long as we sincerely pray twice a day."

- Carol B. Thomas, First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, "Strengthen Home and Family," Ensign, May 2002, p. 95
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/05/strengthen-home-and-family?lang=eng

Bearing and caring for a child glorifies God

"Think of it: When a mother bears and cares for a child, she not only helps the earth answer the end of its creation, but she glorifies God!"

- Elder Russell M. Nelson, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "How Firm Our Foundation," Ensign, May 2002, p. 76
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/05/how-firm-our-foundation?lang=eng

Our behavior has a bearing on our effectiveness in the priesthood

"Our behavior in public must be above reproach. Our behavior in private is even more important. It must clear the standard set by the Lord. We cannot indulge in sin, let alone try to cover our sins. We cannot gratify our pride. We cannot partake of the vanity of unrighteous ambition. We cannot exercise control, or dominion, or compulsion upon our wives or children, or any others in any degree of unrighteousness.

"If we do any of these things, the powers of heaven are withdrawn. The Spirit of the Lord is grieved. The very virtue of our priesthood is nullified. Its authority is lost.

"The manner of our living, the words we speak, and our everyday behavior have a bearing upon our effectiveness as men and boys holding the priesthood."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, "Personal Worthiness to Exercise the Priesthood," Ensign, May 2002, p. 52
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/05/personal-worthiness-to-exercise-the-priesthood?lang=eng

Converted implies not merely mental acceptance of Jesus and his teachings but also a motivating faith in him and his gospel

“Converted means to turn from one belief or course of action to another. Conversion is a spiritual and moral change. Converted implies not merely mental acceptance of Jesus and his teachings but also a motivating faith in him and his gospel. A faith which works a transformation, an actual change in one’s understanding of life’s meaning and in his allegiance to God in interest, in thought, and in conduct. In one who is really wholly converted, desire for things contrary to the gospel of Jesus Christ has actually died. And substituted therefore is a love of God, with a fixed and controlling determination to keep his commandments.”

- Pres. Marion G. Romney, as quoted by Elder Richard G. Scott Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in "Full Conversion Brings Happiness," Ensign, May 2002, p. 24
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/05/full-conversion-brings-happiness?lang=eng

“He that cannot forgive others breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass if he would ever reach heaven, for everyone has need of forgiveness.”

- George Herbert, an early 17th-century poet, as quoted by Pres. Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the First Presidency, "Hidden Wedges," Ensign, May 2002, p. 19
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/05/hidden-wedges?lang=eng

"Nothing compares with a father who is responsible and in turn teaches his children responsibility. Nothing compares with a mother who is present with them to comfort them and give them assurance. Love, protection, and tenderness are all of consummate worth."

- - Pres. Boyd K. Packer, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Children," Ensign, May 2002, p. 8
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/05/children?lang=eng

Every time a child is born, the world is renewed in innocence.

"Children are the past, the present, and the future all blended into one. They are consummately precious. Every time a child is born, the world is renewed in innocence."

- Pres. Boyd K. Packer, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Children," Ensign, May 2002, p. 8
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/05/children?lang=eng

There will be searching questions concerning our domestic relations

"I am confident that when we stand before the bar of God, there will be little mention of how much wealth we accumulated in life or of any honors which we may have achieved. But there will be searching questions concerning our domestic relations. And I am convinced that only those who have walked through life with love and respect and appreciation for their companions and children will receive from our eternal judge the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: … enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matt. 25:21)."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, "Personal Worthiness to Exercise the Priesthood," General Conference, Apr 2002
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2002/04/personal-worthiness-to-exercise-the-priesthood?lang=eng

Heavenly Father is aware of your anguish, one day he will bless you beyond your capacity to express

"Be assured, too, that all faithful sisters, who, through no fault of their own, do not have the privilege during their second estate of being sealed to a worthy man, will have that blessing in eternity. On occasions when you ache for that acceptance and affection which belong to family life on earth, please know that our Father in Heaven is aware of your anguish, and that one day he will bless you beyond your capacity to express."

- Pres. Spencer W. Kimball, President of the Church, "The Role of Righteous Women," General Conference, Oct 1979
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1979/10/the-role-of-righteous-women?lang=eng

When parents keep the covenants they have made at the altar of the temple, their children will be forever bound to them

"It is not uncommon for responsible parents to lose one of their children, for a time, to influences over which they have no control. They agonize over rebellious sons or daughters. They are puzzled over why they are so helpless when they have tried so hard to do what they should.

"It is my conviction that those wicked influences one day will be overruled.

"'The Prophet Joseph Smith declared—and he never taught a more comforting doctrine—that the eternal sealings of faithful parents and the divine promises made to them for valiant service in the Cause of Truth, would save not only themselves, but likewise their posterity. Though some of the sheep may wander, the eye of the Shepherd is upon them, and sooner or later they will feel the tentacles of Divine Providence reaching out after them and drawing them back to the fold. Either in this life or the life to come, they will return. They will have to pay their debt to justice; they will suffer for their sins; and may tread a thorny path; but if it leads them at last, like the penitent Prodigal, to a loving and forgiving father’s heart and home, the painful experience will not have been in vain. Pray for your careless and disobedient children; hold on to them with your faith. Hope on, trust on, till you see the salvation of God.' (Orson F. Whitney, in Conference Report, Apr. 1929, p. 110.)

"We cannot overemphasize the value of temple marriage, the binding ties of the sealing ordinance, and the standards of worthiness required of them. When parents keep the covenants they have made at the altar of the temple, their children will be forever bound to them."

- Elder Boyd K. Packer, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Our Moral Environment," General Conference, Apr 1992
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1992/04/our-moral-environment?lang=eng

We must work at our responsibility as parents as if everything in life counted on it, because in fact everything in life does count on it

"My brothers and sisters, we must work at our responsibility as parents as if everything in life counted on it, because in fact everything in life does count on it.

"If we fail in our homes, we fail in our lives. No man is truly successful who has failed in his home. I ask you men, particularly, to pause and take stock of yourselves as husbands and fathers and heads of households. Pray for guidance, for help, for direction, and then follow the whisperings of the Spirit to guide you in the most serious of all responsibilities, for the consequences of your leadership in your home will be eternal and everlasting."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, "Each a Better Person," Ensign, Nov 2002, p. 100
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/11/each-a-better-person?lang=eng

Every father in the Church should function as the patriarch of his home

"Every father in the Church should function as the patriarch of his home. He should take the lead in spiritually guiding the family. He ought not to delegate nor abrogate his responsibilities to the mother. He should call for family prayer, family home evening, scripture reading, and occasional father interviews. He is the protector, the defender, and the kindly source of discipline. It is the father who should lead, unify, and solidify the family unit by accepting the priesthood of God and responding to the calls and privileges associated with priesthood authority. His relationship with God and His Son, Jesus Christ, is one of the beacons which will lead his sons and daughters through the stormy shoals of life.

"If Dad is a true disciple of Jesus Christ, then the sons will follow him as the night the day. "

- Elder F. Melvin Hammond, Of the Seventy, "Dad, Are You Awake?," Ensign, Nov 2002, p. 98
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/11/dad-are-you-awake?lang=eng

"Placing God first in all things kindles greater love and devotion between husband and wife, parents and children."

- Bishop Keith B. McMullin, Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric, "Come to Zion! Come to Zion!," Ensign, Nov 2002, p. 96
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/11/come-to-zion-come-to-zion?lang=eng

Tithing teaches us to control our desires for things of the world

"Tithing also teaches us to control our desires and passions for the things of this world. Payment of tithing encourages us to be honest in our dealings with our fellowmen. We learn to trust that what we have been given, through the blessings of the Lord and our own diligent efforts, is sufficient for our needs."

- Elder Robert D. Hales, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Tithing: A Test of Faith with Eternal Blessings," Ensign, Nov 2002, p. 27
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2002/11/tithing-a-test-of-faith-with-eternal-blessings?lang=eng

He paid a debt He did not owe to free us from a debt we can never pay

"How can we ever repay the debt we owe to the Savior? He paid a debt He did not owe to free us from a debt we can never pay."

- Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Earthly Debts, Heavenly Debts," Ensign, May 2004, p. 43
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/05/earthly-debts-heavenly-debts?lang=eng

Debt is a form of bondage

"Remember this: debt is a form of bondage....

"Some debt—such as for a modest home, expenses for education, perhaps for a needed first car—may be necessary. But never should we enter into financial bondage through consumer debt without carefully weighing the costs."

- Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Earthly Debts, Heavenly Debts," Ensign, May 2004
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/05/earthly-debts-heavenly-debts?lang=eng

Broken, or repentant; contrite, or obedient

"As you seek the blessing of conversion, you can offer the Lord the gift of your broken, or repentant, heart and your contrite, or obedient, spirit. In reality, it is the gift of yourself—what you are and what you are becoming."

- Elder D. Todd Christofferson, Of the Presidency of the Seventy, "When Thou Art Converted," Ensign, May 2004, p. 12
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/05/when-thou-art-converted?lang=eng

Media portrays us as trivial creations, and too many of us accept this as entertainment

"Evil that used to be localized and covered like a boil is now legalized and paraded like a banner. The most fundamental roots and bulwarks of civilization are questioned or attacked. Nations disavow their religious heritage. Marriage and family responsibilities are discarded as impediments to personal indulgence. The movies and magazines and television that shape our attitudes are filled with stories or images that portray the children of God as predatory beasts or, at best, as trivial creations pursuing little more than personal pleasure. And too many of us accept this as entertainment."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Preparation for the Second Coming," Ensign, May 2004, p. 9
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/05/preparation-for-the-second-coming?lang=eng

"A testimony is a witness or confirmation of eternal truth impressed upon individual hearts and souls through the Holy Ghost."

- Elder M. Russell Ballard, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Pure Testimony," Nov 2004, p. 40
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/11/pure-testimony?lang=eng

If we look for human frailty in humans, we will always find it

"Satan will always work on the Saints of God to undermine their faith in priesthood keys. One way he does it is to point out the humanity of those who hold them. He can in that way weaken our testimony and so cut us loose from the line of keys by which the Lord ties us to Him and can take us and our families home to Him and to our Heavenly Father....

"The warning for us is plain. If we look for human frailty in humans, we will always find it. When we focus on finding the frailties of those who hold priesthood keys, we run risks for ourselves. When we speak or write to others of such frailties, we put them at risk.

"We live in a world where finding fault in others seems to be the favorite blood sport. It has long been the basis of political campaign strategy. It is the theme of much television programming across the world. It sells newspapers. Whenever we meet anyone, our first, almost unconscious reaction may be to look for imperfections.

"To keep ourselves grounded in the Lord’s Church, we can and must train our eyes to recognize the power of the Lord in the service of those He has called. We must be worthy of the companionship of the Holy Ghost. And we need to pray for the Holy Ghost to help us know that men who lead us hold this power. For me, such prayers are most often answered when I am fully engaged in the Lord’s service myself."

- Elder Henry B. Eyring, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Faith and Keys," Ensign, Nov 2004, p. 28
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/11/faith-and-keys?lang=eng

Every trial and experience you have passed through is necessary for your salvation

“All intelligent beings who are crowned with crowns of glory, immortality, and eternal lives must pass through every ordeal appointed for intelligent beings to pass through, to gain their glory and exaltation. Every calamity that can come upon mortal beings will be suffered to come upon the few, to prepare them to enjoy the presence of the Lord. … Every trial and experience you have passed through is necessary for your salvation.”

- Brigham Young, Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe (1954), 345. As quoted by Pres. James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, "Where Do I Make My Stand?," Ensign, Nov 2004, p. 21
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/11/where-do-i-make-my-stand?lang=eng#footnote20-24911_000_008

Making a wrong choice early may limit making the right choice later

"How we use our God-given moral agency explains why some things happen in our lives. Some of our choices have unforeseen results, which may be good or bad. But often we know in advance that some of our choices will have detrimental or even harmful consequences. I call these “informed choices” because we know our acts will have disastrous results. These informed choices include illicit sexual relations and the use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco. Such poor informed choices may prevent a person from going on a mission or receiving temple blessings. We may make incorrect informed decisions because the lures of the world distort reality and make us vulnerable. In dating relationships with the opposite sex, making a wrong choice early may limit making the right choice later."

- Pres. James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, "Where Do I Make My Stand?," Ensign, Nov 2004, p. 21
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/11/where-do-i-make-my-stand?lang=eng

The Church is in better condition than it has been at any time in its entire history

"I believe the Church is in better condition than it has been at any time in its entire history. I have been around now for nearly 95 years of that history, and I have seen much of it firsthand. I am satisfied that there is greater faith, there is a broader measure of service, and there is a more general measure of integrity among our youth. There is greater vitality in all aspects of the work than we have ever seen before. Let us glory in this wonderful season of the work of the Lord. Let us not be proud or arrogant. Let us be humbly grateful. And let us, each one, resolve within himself or herself that we will add to the luster of this magnificent work of the Almighty, that it may shine across the earth as a beacon of strength and goodness for all the world to look upon, is my humble prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, "Condition of the Church," Ensign, Nov 2004, p. 6
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/11/condition-of-the-church?lang=eng

There is no better way to ensure proper living than temple attendance

"We repeat what we have said before: make a habit of going to the house of the Lord. There is no better way to ensure proper living than temple attendance. It will crowd out the evils of pornography, substance abuse, and spiritual atrophy. It will strengthen marriage and family relations."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, "Closing Remarks," Ensign, May 2005, p. 102
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2005/05/closing-remarks?lang=eng

Walking pornography

"[Y]oung women, please understand that if you dress immodestly, you are magnifying this problem by becoming pornography to some of the men who see you."

- Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Pornography," Ensign, May 2005 p. 90

Their hope is in your hands

"Many of your deceased ancestors will have received a testimony that the message of the missionaries is true. When you received that testimony you could ask the missionaries for baptism. But those who are in the spirit world cannot. The ordinances you so cherish are offered only in this world. Someone in this world must go to a holy temple and accept the covenants on behalf of the person in the spirit world. That is why we are under obligation to find the names of our ancestors and ensure that they are offered by us what they cannot receive there without our help....

"[The Savior] has trusted you by letting you hear the gospel in your lifetime, giving you the chance to accept the obligation to offer it to those of your ancestors who did not have your priceless opportunity. Think of the gratitude He has for those who pay the price in work and faith to find the names of their ancestors and who love them and Him enough to offer them eternal life in families, the greatest of all the gifts of God. He offered them an infinite sacrifice. He will love and appreciate those who paid whatever price they could to allow their ancestors to choose His offer of eternal life....

"You are not just gathering names. Those you never met in life will become friends you love. Your heart will be bound to theirs forever...

"After you find the first few generations, the road will become more difficult. The price will become greater. As you go back in time, the records become less complete. As others of your family search out ancestors, you will discover that the ancestor you find has already been offered the full blessings of the temple. Then you will have a difficult and important choice to make. You will be tempted to stop and leave the hard work of finding to others who are more expert or to another time in your life. But you will also feel a tug on your heart to go on in the work, hard as it will be.

"As you decide, remember that the names which will be so difficult to find are of real people to whom you owe your existence in this world and whom you will meet again in the spirit world. When you were baptized, your ancestors looked down on you with hope. Perhaps after centuries, they rejoiced to see one of their descendants make a covenant to find them and to offer them freedom. In your reunion, you will see in their eyes either gratitude or terrible disappointment. Their hearts are bound to you. Their hope is in your hands. You will have more than your own strength as you choose to labor on to find them."

- Elder Henry B. Eyring, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "Hearts Bound Together," Ensign, May 2005, p. 78-80
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2005/05/hearts-bound-together?lang=eng

If we attended the temple, we would be a better people

"If every man in this church who has been ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood were to qualify himself to hold a temple recommend, and then were to go to the house of the Lord and renew his covenants in solemnity before God and witnesses, we would be a better people. There would be little or no infidelity among us. Divorce would almost entirely disappear. So much of heartache and heartbreak would be avoided. There would be a greater measure of peace and love and happiness in our homes. There would be fewer weeping wives and weeping children. There would be a greater measure of appreciation and of mutual respect among us. And I am confident the Lord would smile with greater favor upon us."

- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church, "Of Missions, Temples, and Stewardship," General Conference, Oct 1995
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1995/10/of-missions-temples-and-stewardship?lang=eng

"And how does one magnify a calling? Simply by performing the service that pertains to it."

- Pres. Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the First Presidency, "The Sacred Call of Service," Ensign, May 2005, p. 54
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2005/05/the-sacred-call-of-service?lang=eng#footnote3-25905_000_022

To break this covenant one needs only to do nothing

 “One breaks [his] priesthood covenant by transgressing commandments—but also by leaving undone his duties. Accordingly, to break this covenant one needs only to do nothing.”

- Pres. Spencer W. Kimball, The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball (1982), 497. As quoted by Pres. Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the First Presidency, "The Sacred Call of Service," Ensign, May 2005, p. 54
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2005/05/the-sacred-call-of-service?lang=eng#footnote3-25905_000_022

Every temple lessens the power of Satan on the earth

“Every foundation stone that is laid for a Temple, and every Temple completed according to the order the Lord has revealed for his holy Priesthood, lessens the power of Satan on the earth, and increases the power of God and Godliness, moves the heavens in mighty power in our behalf, invokes and calls down upon us the blessings of the Eternal Gods, and those who reside in their presence.”

- Pres. George Q. Cannon, “The Logan Temple,” Millennial Star, Nov. 12, 1877, 743. As quoted by Pres. James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, "Perseverance," Ensign, May 2005, p. 53
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2005/05/perseverance?lang=eng#footnote8-25905_000_021

We discover something about ourselves when we learn about our ancestors

"I admonish all families: search out your heritage. It is important to know, as far as possible, those who came before us. We discover something about ourselves when we learn about our ancestors."

- Pres. Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the First Presidency, "Constant Truths for Changing Times," Ensign, May 2005, p. 21
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2005/05/constant-truths-for-changing-times?lang=eng

Walk a few steps into the darkness

"We once had a major decision to make. When our prayers left us uncertain, I went to see Elder Harold B. Lee. He counseled us to proceed. Sensing that I was still very unsettled, he said, “The problem with you is you want to see the end from the beginning.” Then he quoted this verse from the Book of Mormon, “Dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith” (Ether 12:6).

"He added, “You must learn to walk a few steps ahead into the darkness, and then the light will turn on and go before you.” That was a life-changing experience from one verse in the Book of Mormon."

- Pres. Boyd K. Packer, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, "The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ—Plain and Precious Things," Ensign, May 2005, p. 8
http://www.lds.org/ensign/2005/05/the-book-of-mormon-another-testament-of-jesus-christ-plain-and-precious-things?lang=eng