Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve spoke on the blessings and hardships members will face as they strive to be disciples of Christ.
“I say to all and especially the youth of the Church that if you haven’t already, you will one day find yourself called upon to defend your faith or perhaps even endure some personal abuse simply because you are a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” he said.
He shared an account of a sister missionary who had food spit on her by a man and was sworn at and how she exhibited strength by not lashing out in return.
“In keeping with the Savior’s own experience, there has been a long history of rejection and a painfully high price paid by prophets and apostles, missionaries and members in every generation, all those who have tried to honor God’s call to lift the human family to ‘a more excellent way,’” he said.
He assured the youth of the church that standing courageously for morals while in high school or on a mission is worth it, despite any ridicule that may come from society. He said the messengers of divine commandments are no more popular than they were in ancient days.
He reminded members that Christ told those whom he taught that if they loved him they should keep his commandments.
“Christlike love is the greatest need we have on this planet,” he said. “Pure, Christlike love flowing from true righteousness can change the world.”
He said members are the messengers to carry the burden of teaching and encouraging but also of warning.
“Now be strong,” he said. “Live the gospel faithfully even if others around you don’t live it at all. Defend your beliefs with courtesy and with compassion, but defend them.”
