Hope

Hope

1.  “After all we can do in faith, the Lord will justify our hopes for greater blessings for our families than we can imagine.  He wants the best for them and for us, as His children.” Henry B. Erying, “A Priceless Heritage of Hope”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/a-priceless-heritage-of-hope?lang=eng

2.  “Real hope keeps us ‘anxiously engaged’ in good causes even when these appear to be losing causes on the mortal scoreboard.  Likewise, real hope is much more than wishful musing.  It stiffens, not slackens, the spiritual spine.  Hope is serene, not giddy, eager without being naïve, and pleasantly steady without being smug.  Hope is realistic anticipation which take the form of a determinations—not only to survive adversity but, moreover, to ‘endure…well’ to the end.” Neal A. Maxwell, “Hope through the Atonement of Jesus Christ”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/1998/10/hope-through-the-atonement-of-jesus-christ?lang=eng&clang=eng

3.  “Such ultimate hope constitutes the ‘anchor of the soul’ and is retained through the gift of the Holy Ghost and faith in Christ.  In contrast, viewing life without the prospect of immortality can diminish not only hope but also the sense of personal accountability”  Neal A. Maxwell, “Hope through the Atonement of Jesus Christ”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/1998/10/hope-through-the-atonement-of-jesus-christ?lang=eng&clang=eng

4.  “Our willingness to take upon us the name of Christ and keep His commandments requires a degree of faith, but as we honor our covenants, that faith expands.  In the first place, the promised fruits of obedience become evident, which confirms our faith.  Secondly, the Spirit communicates God’s pleasure, and we feel secure in His continued blessing and help.  Thirdly, come what may, we can face life with hope and equanimity, knowing that we will succeed in the end because we have God’s promise to us individually by name, and we know He cannot lie.” D Todd Chistofferson, “The Power of Covenants”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/04/the-power-of-covenants?lang=eng

5.  “But where do we find hope in the midst of such turmoil and catastrophe? Quite simply, our one hope for spiritual safety during these turbulent times is to turn our minds and our hearts to Jesus Christ.” M Russell Ballard, “The Joy of Hope Fulfilled”, www.lds.org/general-conference/1992/10/the-joy-of-hope-fulfilled?lang=eng

6.  “As we put our faith and trust to work, hope is born.  Hope grow out of faith and finds meaning and purpose to all that we do.  It can even give us the peaceful assurance we need to live happily in a world that is ripe with iniquity, calamity, and injustice.” M Russell Ballard, “The Joy of Hope Fulfilled,” www.lds.org/general-conference/1992/10/the-joy-of-hope-fulfilled?lang=eng

7.  “When you were baptized, you became participants in the first great hope, the Atonement of Christ. Every time you worthily partake of the sacrament, you have the opportunity to begin again and do a little better.  It is like burying the old, unworthy part of yourself and starting over with a new life” Julie B. Beck “There is Hope Smiling Brightly Before Us”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2003/04/there-is-hope-smiling-brightly-before-us?lang=eng&clang=eng

8.  “Your hope and faith in the Savior will increase as you repent and make personal changes that are the equivalent of burying your own sins.  When you repent and worthily partake of the sacrament, you can then ‘walk in newness of life’.  There is hope smiling brightly before you because of the Atonement of Christ.” Julie B. Beck “There is Hope Smiling Brightly Before Us”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2003/04/there-is-hope-smiling-brightly-before-us?lang=eng&clang=eng

9.  “Everybody in this life has their challenges and difficulties.  That is part of our mortal test.  The reason for some of these trials cannot be readily understood except on the basis of faith and hope because there is often a larger purpose which we do not always understand.  Peace comes through hope.” James E. Faust, “Hope, an Anchor of the Soul”, www.lds.org/general-conference/1999/10/hope-an-anchor-of-the-soul?lang=eng

10.  “Hope is trust in God’s promises, faith that if we act now, the desired blessings will be fulfilled in the future.” James E Faust, “Hope, an Anchor of the Soul”, www.lds.org/general-conference/1999/10/hope-an-anchor-of-the-soul?lang=eng

Position Statement:

The gospel of Jesus Christ brings me hope.  Even though life is hard and the world seems to be in turmoil, I have hope that if I follow the Savior, I will have peace and strength.  I have found when I am serving, praying, and reading the scriptures, life is much easier to handle.  I find peace and hope even when life is hard.  God did not intend for me to live my life in despair over the calamities in the world.  He intended for me to be happy and enjoy the journey.  Hope in the Lord, Jesus Christ and in His teachings brings happiness into my life.  

Burdens

Burdens

1.  “You will on day stand aside and look at your difficult times, and you will realize that He was always there beside you.”  President Thomas S. Monson, “We Never Walk Alone,” https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/we-never-walk-alone?lang=eng

2.  “As we remember prayer and take time to turn to the scriptures, our live will be infinitely more blessed and our burdens will be made lighter.”  President Thomas S. Monson. “We Never Walk Alone,” https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/we-never-walk-alone?lang=eng

3.  “My brothers and sisters, each of us has that light in his or her life.  We are not left to walk alone, no matter how dark our pathway.”  President Thomas S Monson, “Be of Good Cheer,” https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/04/be-of-good-cheer?lang=eng

4.  “It might sound contrary to the wisdom of the world to suggest that one who is burdened with sorrow should give thanks to God.  But those who set aside the bottle of bitterness and lift instead the goblet of gratitude can find a purifying drink of healing, peace, and understanding.” President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Grateful in Any Circumstances,” https://www.lds.org/search?lang=eng&query=grateful+in+any+circumstances

5.  The healing power of the Lord Jesus Christ-whether it removes our burdens or strengthens us to endure and live with them like the Apostle Paul-is available for every affliction in mortality.” Dallin H Oaks, “He Heals the Heavy Laden”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2006/10/he-heals-the-heavy-laden?lang=eng

6.  “Commune with the Lord…He is your best friend! He know your pain because He has felt it for you already.  He is ready to carry that burden.  Trust Him enough to place it at His feet and allow Him to carry it for you.  Then you can have your anguish replaced with His peace, in the very depths of your soul”, Dallin H Oaks, “He Heals the Heavy Laden”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2006/10/he-heals-the-heavy-laden?lang=eng

7.  “The unique burden in each of our lives help us to rely upon the merits, mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah”, David A Bednar, “Bear Up Their Burdens with Ease”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/bear-up-their-burdens-with-ease?lang=eng

8.  “Sometimes we mistakenly may believe that happiness is the absence of a load.  But bearing a load is a necessary and essential part of the plan of happiness.  Because our individual load needs to generate spiritual tractions, we should be careful to not haul around in our lives so many nice but unnecessary things that we are distracted and diverted from the things that truly matter most.” David A Bednar, “Bear Up Their Burdens with Ease”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/bear-up-their-burdens-with-ease?lang=eng

9.  “Through is all, the Savior offers us sustaining strength and support, and in His own time and way, He offers deliverance.” L Whitney Clayton, “That Your Burdens May Be Light,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/10/that-your-burdens-may-be-light?lang=eng

10.  “We must do everything we can to bear our burdens ‘well’ for however long our ‘small moment’ carrying them lasts.” L. Whitney Clayton,” That Your Burdens May Be Light,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/10/that-your-burdens-may-be-light?lang=eng

Position Statement:

The Lord gives me burdens to strengthen me.  He provides the extra strength I need when I am facing challenges.  I am never alone.  I will always have my Savior with me.  I need to pray and follow the teachings of the gospel.   I need to find joy in the journey and be able to follow the Savior throughout my life.  I have personally felt my Savior’s love for me as I have walked through some pretty hard challenges.  I have felt my burden lifted-no taken away.  When I rely on the Lord, I can make it and hopefully find joy and see the blessings along the way.  

Agency

Agency

1.  “We can depend on that unfailing desire of the Savior to bring all of Heavenly Father’s spirit children back to their home with Him.  Heavenly Father and the Savior are our perfect examples of what we can and must do.  They never force righteousness because righteousness must be chosen.  They make righteousness discernible to us, and They let us see that its fruits are delicious.“  Henry B. Eyring, “A Priceless Heritage of Hope”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/a-priceless-heritage-of-hope?lang=eng

2.  “Commandments are opportunities to exercise our agency and to receive blessings.  Our loving Heavenly Father knows that choosing to develop a spirit of gratitude will bring us true joy and great happiness.” Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Grateful in Any Circumstances,” https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/grateful-in-any-circumstances?lang=eng

3.  “Obedience is a choice.  It is a choice between our own limited knowledge and power and God’s unlimited wisdom and omnipotence.” L Tom Perry, “Obedience through Our Faithfulness”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/obedience-through-our-faithfulness?lang=eng

4.  Because agency is a God-given gift, ultimately the choice of what they will do, how they will behave, and what they will believe will always be theirs.  But as parents we need to make sure they understand appropriate behavior and the consequences to them if they pursue their wrongful course.” M Russell Ballard, “Like A Flame Unquenchable,” www.lds.org/general-conference/1999/04/like-a-flame-unquenchable?lang=eng

5.  “Whenever we choose to come unto Christ, take His name upon us, and follow His servants, we progress along the path to eternal life”.  Robert D Hales, “Agency: Essential to the Plan of Life,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/agency-essential-to-the-plan-of-life?lang=eng

6.  “Agency is to act with accountability and responsibility for our actions.  Our agency is essential to the plan of salvations.  With it we are ‘free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil.’” Robert D Hales, “Agency: Essential to the Plan of Life,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/agency-essential-to-the-plan-of-life?lang=eng

7.  “Using our agency to obey means choosing to ‘do what is right and letting the consequence follow.” Robert D Hales, “If Ye Love Me, Keep my Commandments,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/if-ye-love-me-keep-my-commandments?lang=eng

8.  Agency is the power to think, choose, and act for ourselves.  It comes with endless opportunities, accompanied by responsibility and consequences.” Sharon G Larsen, “Agency—A Blessing and a Burden”,  www.lds.org/general-conference/1999/10/agency-a-blessing-and-a-burden?lang=eng&query=agency—a+blessing

9.   “When we came into this world, we brought with us from our heavenly home this God-given gift and privilege which we call our agency.  It gives us the right and power to make decisions and to choose. “ Wolfgang H. Paul “The Gift of Agency”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2006/04/the-gift-of-agency?lang=eng&clang=eng 

10.  “Thus, our agency makes our life on this earth a test period.  If we did not have this wonderful gift of agency, we would not be able to show our father in Heaven whether we will do all that He commanded us.  In order for us to use our agency, we must have a knowledge of good and evil, we must have the freedom to make choices, and after was have exercised our agency, there must be consequences that follow our choices.” Wolfgang H. Paul “The Gift of Agency”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2006/04/the-gift-of-agency?lang=eng&clang=eng

Position Statement:

I believe that I have been blessed to live in this time and place where agency, the choice to choose, is allowed so freely.  Heavenly Father gave me the right to choose my actions and my thoughts.  He gave me freedom in my thoughts and beliefs.  I do not get to choose my consequences when I use this agency incorrectly.  I have the gift to choose if I will follow my Savior and obey all of His commandments.  I also, do not get to choose how my children behave.  I have the privilege to teach them but not to force them to follow. 

Personal Revelation

Personal Revelation

1.  “Like most things of great worth, knowledge which is of eternal value comes only through personal prayers and pondering.  These, joined with fasting and scripture study, will invite impressions and revelations and the whisperings of the Holy Spirit.  This provides us with instruction from on high as we learn precept upon precept.” Boyd K Packer, “The Witness”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/the-witness?lang=eng

2.  “Your secret yearnings and tearful pleadings will touch the heart of both the Father and the Son.  You will be given a personal assurance from Them that your life will be full and that no blessing that is essential will be lost to you.”, Boyd K Packer, “The Witness”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/the-witness?lang=eng

3.  “In the personal line we pray directly to our Heavenly Father, and He answers us by the channels He has established, without any mortal intermediary.  We pray to our Heavenly Father…He answers us through His Holy Spirit…This personal line of communication with our Heavenly Father through His Holy Spirits is the source of our testimony of truth, of our knowledge, and of our personal guidance from a  loving Heavenly Father.  This is an essential feature…” Dallin H Oaks, “Two Lines of Communications,” https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/two-lines-of-communication?lang=eng

4.  “The personal line is of paramount importance in personal decisions and in the governance of the family.  Personal decisions and family governance are principally a matter for the personal line.” Dallin H Oaks, “Two Lines of Communications”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/two-lines-of-communication?lang=eng

5.  “To access information from heaven, one must first have a firm faith and a deep desire.  One needs to ‘ask with a sincere heart and real intent, having faith in Jesus Christ’.  Real intent means that one really intends to follow the divine direction given.” Russell M Nelson, “Ask, Seek, Knock,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/10/ask-seek-knock?lang=eng

6.  “For each of you to receive revelation unique to your own needs and responsibilities, certain guidelines prevail.  The Lord asks you to develop ‘faith, hope, charity, and love, with an eye single to the glory of God.’ Then with your firm ‘faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, and diligence,’ you may ask and you will receive; you may knock, and it will be opened unto you.”  Russell M Nelson, “Ask, Seek, Knock,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/10/ask-seek-knock?lang=eng

7.  “ Revelation can come hour by hour and moment by moment as we do the right things.  When women nurture as Christ nurtured, a power and peace can descend to guide when help is needed.”  Julie B. Beck, “And upon the Handmaids in Those Days Will I Pour Out My Spirit”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/04/and-upon-the-handmaids-in-those-days-will-i-pour-out-my-spirit?lang=eng&query=julie+b+beck

8.  “Revelation can also be given in a dream when there is an almost imperceptible transition from sleep to wakefulness.  Inspired communication in the night is generally accompanied by a sacred feeling for the entire experience.  It is the Lord doing the teaching through the Holy Ghost.” Richard G. Scott, “How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/04/how-to-obtain-revelation-and-inspiration-for-your-personal-life?lang=eng&query=personal+revelation

9.  “Two indicators that a feeling or prompting comes from God are that it produces peace in your heart and a quiet, warm feeling.” Richard G. Scott, “How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/04/how-to-obtain-revelation-and-inspiration-for-your-personal-life?lang=eng&query=personal+revelation

10.  “We must ask in faith and with an honest heart.  But that is not all.  We must also believe that we will receive the revelation.  We must trust that Lord and have hope in His promises.”Marcos A. Aidukaitis, “If Ye Lack Wisdom” https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/if-ye-lack-wisdom?lang=eng

Personal Statement:

Personal revelation is individual.  I must ask with faith and believe that I will receive an answer or direction to my question.  The Lord does not usually answer me right away but eventually a feeling or a thought will come.  If I follow these promptings, I will find the answer to my questions.  I have found that the Lord does not usually just tell me the answer.  I have a thought or an idea and I must do the action to receive the answer.  Everything in life is a learning experience and is for our personal growth.  I am not left alone in this life.  If I want the direction from the Lord, I must ask and do what is required to receive my answer.  

Pornography

Pornography

1.  “As our children grow, the need information taught by parents more directly and plainly about what is and is not appropriate.  Parents need to teach children to avoid any pornographic photographs or stores.  Children and youth need to know from parents that pornography of any kind is a told of the devil, and if anyone flirts with it, it has the power to addict, dull, and even destroy the human spirit.” M Russell Ballard, “Like a Flame Unquenchable,” www.lds.org/general-conference/1999/04/like-a-flame-unquenchable?lang=eng

2.  President Hinkley said “I fear this may be going on in some of our homes, it is vicious.  It is lewd and filthy.  It is enticing and habit-forming.  It will take [you] down to destruction as surely as anything in this world.  It is foul sleaze that makes its exploiters wealthy, its victims impoverished.” Thomas S Monson, “True to the Faith.” www.lds.org/general-conference/2006/04/true-to-the-faith?lang=eng

3.  “Avoid any semblance of pornography.  It will desensitize the spirit and erode the conscience.” Thomas S Monson, “True to the Faith.”  www.lds.org/general-conference/2006/04/true-to-the-faith?lang=eng

4.  “Youth who have been exposed to immoral images at a very early age are terrified that they may have already disqualitfied themselves for missionary serice and sacred covenants.  As a result, their faith can be severely impaired.  I want to assure young people, that through repentance you can qualify for all the blessings of heaven.” Quentin L Cook, “Can Ye Feel So Now?” www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/10/can-ye-feel-so-now?lang=eng

5.  “Consider the plague of pornography sweeping across the world.  The Lord’s standard of worthiness give no allowance for pornography among those officiating in the ordinance of the priesthood.  The Savior said: Repent of your… secret abominations.  The light of the body is the eye.  …If thine eye be evil, the whole body shall be full of darkness.  For whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hat committed adultery with her already in his heart.” Neil L Andersen, “Power in the Priesthood,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/power-in-the-priesthood?lang=eng

6.  “First, acknowledge the evil.  Don’t define it or try to justify yourself.  Second, seek the help of the Lord and His servants.  Third, do all that you can to avoid pornography.  Finally, do not patronize pornography.  Let us redouble our efforts from the onslaught of pornography that threatens our spirituality, our marriages, and our children.”  Dallin H Oaks, “Pornography”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2005/04/pornography?lang=eng&query=pornography

7.  “We as parents and leaders need to counsel with our children and youth on an ongoing basis, listening with love and understanding.  They need to know the dangers of pornography and how it overtakes lives, causing loss of the Spirit, distorted feelings, deceit, damaged relationships, loss of self-control, and nearly total consumption of time, thought, and energy.” Linda S. Reeves, “Protection from Pornography-a Christ-Focused Home”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/protection-from-pornography-a-christ-focused-home?lang=eng&query=pornography+addiction

8.  “Brothers and sisters, how do we protect our children and youth?  Filters are useful tools, but the greatest filter in the world, the only one that will ultimately work, is the personal internal filter that comes from a deep and abiding testimony of our Heavenly Father’s love and our Savior’s atoning sacrifice for each one of us.”  Linda S. Reeves, “Protection from Pornography-a Christ-Focused Home”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/protection-from-pornography-a-christ-focused-home?lang=eng&query=pornography+addiction

9. Suppose a storm is raging and the winds howl and the snow swirls about you.  You find yourself unable to stop it.  But you can dress properly and seek shelter, and the storm will have no effect upon you.  Likewise, even though the Internet is saturated with sleazy material, you do not have to watch it.  You can retreat to the shelter of the gospel and its teaching of cleanliness and virtue and purity of life.” Gordon B. Hinkley, “A Tragic Evil Among Us”,  https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2004/10/a-tragic-evil-among-us?lang=eng&clang=eng

10.  “And sin it is.  It is devilish.  It is totally inconsistent with the spirit of the gospel, with personal testimony of the things of God, and with the life of one who has been ordained to the holy priesthood.” Gordon B. Hinkley, “A Tragic Evil Among Us”,  https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2004/10/a-tragic-evil-among-us?lang=eng&clang=eng

Personal Statement:

I must do everything in my power to protect my family from pornography.  The adversary has found a powerful tool to destroy marriage and families and even individuals.  My heart hurts for those who are caught in this addiction.  It is my job as a mother, to make sure my children are aware of the evils and heartache that pornography can cause.  I must fortify their testimonies so as to help them fight against the adversary.  I must help them to understand that the Spirit of the Lord cannot dwell in their hearts if pornography is present in their lives.  

Atonement

Atonement

1.  “It is human characteristic to become hardened to the pains of others.  That is one of the reasons why the Savior went to such lengths to tell of His Atonement and of His taking upon Himself the pains and sorrows of all of our Heavenly Father’s children that He might know how to succor them.” Henry B. Eyring, “Bind Up Their Wounds”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/bind-up-their-wounds?lang=eng&query=bind+up+their+wounds

2. “We all make mistakes…it is then in our nature to feel guilt and humiliation and suffering, which we alone cannot cure.  That is when the healing power of the Atonement will help.”, Boyd K Packer, “The Touch of the Master’s Hand,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2001/04/the-touch-of-the-masters-hand?lang=eng&query=the+touch+of+the+master%27s+hand

3.  “For some reason, we think the Atonement of Christ applies only at the end of mortal life to redemption from the Fall, from spiritual death.  It is much more than that.  It is an ever-present power to call upon in everyday life.  When we are racked or harrowed up or tormented by guilt or burdened with grief, He can heal us.  While we do not fully understand how the Atonement of Christ was made, we can experience “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding.” Boyd K Packer, “The Touch of the Master’s Hand,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2001/04/the-touch-of-the-masters-hand?lang=eng&query=the+touch+of+the+master%27s+hand

4.  “ Many of us have allowed weakness to develop in our  character.  Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we, like the Ammonites, can build spiritual fortifications between ourselves and any past mistakes that Satan attempts to exploit.” Richard G Scott, “Personal Strength through the Atonement of Jesus Christ,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/personal-strength-through-the-atonement-of-jesus-christ?lang=eng

5.  “As you lose your life in the service of Father in Heaven’s children, Satan’s temptations lose power in your life. Because your Father in Heaven loves you profoundly, the Atonement of Jesus Christ makes that strength possible.  Isn’t that wonderful?  Many of you have felt the burden of poor choices, and each of you can feel the elevating power of the Lord’s forgiveness, mercy, and strength.”  Richard G Scott, “Personal Strength through the Atonement of Jesus Christ,”  www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/personal-strength-through-the-atonement-of-jesus-christ?lang=eng

6.  “The Atonement of Jesus Christ makes possible our becoming more like our Father in Heaven so that we can live together eternally in our family units.”  Richard G Scott, “I have Given You an Example,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/i-have-given-you-an-example?lang=eng&query=I+hae+given+you+and+example

7.  “Should choices be wrong, they can be rectified through repentance.  When its conditions are fully met, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, our Savior, provides a release from the demands of justice for the errors made.  It is wondrously simple and so incomparably beautiful.” Richard G. Scott, “How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/04/how-to-obtain-revelation-and-inspiration-for-your-personal-life?lang=eng&query=personal+revelation

8.  “And when mistakes are made, the wondrous Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ must be understood and accepted so that through the complete and sometimes difficult process of repentance, forgiveness and continued hope for the future can be obtained.  We must never give up our individual and family quest for eternal life.”  M Russell Ballard, “Like a Flame Unquenchable,” www.lds.org/general-conference/1999/04/like-a-flame-unquenchable?lang=eng

9.  “His Atonement reaches and is powerful enough not only to pay the price for sin but also to heal every mortal affliction.” Dallin H Oaks, “He Heals the Heavy Laden,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2006/10/he-heals-the-heavy-laden?lang=eng

10.  “I want them and you to know that I know the Savior lives and loves us.  He has paid the price for our sins, but we must kneel before tour Father in Heaven, in deep humility, confessing our sins, and plead with Him for forgiveness.  We must want to change our hearts and our desires and be humble enough to seek the help and forgiveness of those we may have hurt or forsaken. “ Linda S Reeves, “Protections from Pornography-a Christ-Focused Home”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/protection-from-pornography-a-christ-focused-home?lang=eng&query=pornography+addiction

Position Statement:

The Atonement of Jesus Christ makes it possible for me to repent and be healed from the evils and heartaches in this life.  I can become more like my Savior through His atonement.  I can continually strive to be perfect through Christ.  Not only can my sins be forgiven but, I can heal and be strengthened from the trials in my life.  Christ died that I might rise again but he suffered in the Garden of Gethsemane and provided an atonement so that I could live with my Father in Heaven again.  Christ suffered for all of my heartaches, all the injustices in the world, and for my sins.  I will be eternally grateful to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  

Family

Family

1.  “He knew that the happiness of eternal life comes through family bonds with continue forever.”  Henry B. Erying, “A Priceless Heritage of Hope”, April 2014 General Conference, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/a-priceless-heritage-of-hope?lang=eng&query=president+a+priceless+heritage+of+hope

2.  “Heavenly Father has assigned us to a great variety of stations to strengthen and, when needed, to lead travelers to safety.  Our most important and powerful assignments are in the family.  They are important because the family has the opportunity at the start of a child’s life to put feet firmly on the path home.  Parents, brothers and sisters, grandparents, aunts and uncles are made more powerful guides and rescuers by the bonds of love that are the very nature of a family.” Henry B. Erying, “Help Them on Their Way Home”, April 2010 General Conference, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/04/help-them-on-their-way-home?lang=eng&query=president+help+them+on+their+way+home

3.  “A unity which comes to a family or to a people softened by the Spirit will bring great power.  With that power will come recognition from the world.  Whether that recognition brings praise or envy, it could lead us to pride.”  Henry B Eyring,”That We May Be One”, https://www.lds.org/ensign/1998/05/that-we-may-be-one

4.  “May it be our resolve this year to build a gospel-centered home, a safe harbor from the storms of the adversary.” L Tom Perry, “The Importance of the Family,” www.lds.org/ensign/2003/05/the-importance-of-the-family?lang=eng&

5.  “In a world of turmoil and uncertainty, it is more important than ever to make our families the center of our lives and the top of our priorities.  Families lie at the center of our Heavenly Father’s plan.” L Tom Perry, “The Importance of the Family,” www.lds.org/ensign/2003/05/the-importance-of-the-family?lang=eng&

6.  “I wish I could tell you that focusing on information, communication, intervention, and example would always result in a perfect family with perfect children who never stray from gospel standards.  That is, unfortunately, not the case.  But families that know, teach, and live gospel principles and standards are more likely to spare themselves the pain of serious mistakes.  When long-established patterns of positive communications and faithful example prevail, it is much easier to counsel together about personal problems and to work through the necessary changes that will bless every family member.” M Russell Ballard, “Like a Flame Unquenchable”, www.lds.org/general-conference/1999/04/like-a-flame-unquenchable?lang=eng

7.  “The family is the foundation for love and for maintain spirituality.  The family promotes an atmosphere where religious observation can flourish.  There is indeed ‘beauty all around when there’s love at home’”, Quentin L Cook, “Can Ye Feel So Now?” www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/10/can-ye-feel-so-now?lang=eng

8. “We can become more diligent and concerned at home as we are more faithful in learning, living, and loving the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.” David A Bednar, “More Diligent and Concerned at Home”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/10/more-diligent-and-concerned-at-home?lang=eng

9.  “Loving, protecting, and nurturing our children are among the most sacred and eternally important things we will do.  Worldly belongings will vanish, today’s number-one movie or song will be irrelevant tomorrow, but a son or a daughter is eternal.” W. Douglas Shumway, “Marriage and Family: Our Sacred Responsibility”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2004/04/marriage-and-family-our-sacred-responsibility?lang=eng&query=shumway+Marriage+and+family

10.  Although, the adversary seeks to destroy the key elements necessary for a happy marriage and a righteous family, let me assure you that the gospel of Jesus Christ provides the tools and teachings necessary to combat and conquer the assailant in this war.  If we will but honor our marriage by imparting more love and selflessness to our spouses; nurture our children through gentle persuasion and the expert teacher we call example, and fortify the spirituality of our families through consistent family home evening, prayer, and scripture study, Jesus Christ, will guide us and grant us victory in our efforts to achieve and eternal family unit.” W. Douglas Shumway, “Marriage and Family: Our Sacred Responsibility,” https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2004/04/marriage-and-family-our-sacred-responsibility?lang=eng&query=shumway+Marriage+and+family

Position Statement:

My family means everything to me.  I am blessed to have a wonderful family where there is love, communication, and respect.  I know that the family is under attack from the adversary.  I am doing my best to raise my children in the gospel.  I want my family to return to live with our Father in Heaven as an eternal family.  As we strive to live the commandments, my family is coming closer to the Savior and has the peace of the gospel on my home.  I am guided to teach my children in ways that will allow them to feel the love of the Savior and to have the protection they can find from obeying the commandments.  I am thankful that my family has been sealed in the House of the Lord for all eternity.  

Marriage

Marriage

1.  “A man and a wife learn to be one by using their similarities to understand each other and their differences to complement each other in serving on another and those around them. “ Henry B. Erying, “That We May Be One”, https://www.lds.org/ensign/1998/05/that-we-may-be-one

2.  “That proclamation on the family helps us realize that celestial marriage brings greater possibilities for happiness than does any other relationship.  The earth was created and this Church was restored so that families could be formed, sealed, and exalted eternally.” Russell M Nelson, “Celestial Marriage,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2008/10/celestial-marriage?lang=eng

3.  “Meanwhile, mortal misunderstandings can make mischief in a marriage.  In fact, each marriage start with two built-in handicaps.  It involves two imperfect people.  Happiness can come to them only through their earnest effort.  Just as harmony comes from an orchestra only when its members make a concerted effort, so harmony in a marriage also requires a concerted effort.  That effort will succeed if each partner will minimize personal demands and maximize actions of loving selflessness.” Russell M Nelson, “Celestial Marriage,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2008/10/celestial-marriage?lang=eng

4.  “Marriage brings greater possibilities for happiness than does any other human relationship.  Yet some married couples fall short of their full potential.  They let their romance become rusty, take each other for granted, allow other interests or clouds of neglect to obscure the vision of what their marriage really could be.  Marriages would be happier if nurtured more carefully.”  Russell M Nelson, “Nurturing Marriage”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2006/04/nurturing-marriage?lang=eng

5.  “Two steps to strengthen marriage.  First is to comprehend the doctrinal foundation for marriage.  So, brethren, your foremost priesthood duty is to nurture your marriage-to care for, respect, honor, and love your wife.  Be a blessing to her and your children.  Second is to strengthen marriage by appreciation, communication, and contemplation.” Russell M Nelson, “Nurturing Marriage”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2006/04/nurturing-marriage?lang=eng

6.  “While many governments and well-meaning individuals have redefined marriage, the Lord has not.  In the very beginning, God initiated marriage between a man and a woman-Adam and Eve.  He designated the purposes of marriage to go far beyond the personal satisfaction and fulfillment of adults, to more importantly, advancing the ideal setting for children to be born, reared, and nurtured.  Families are the treasure of heaven.” Neil L Andersen, “Spiritual Whirlwinds”, www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/spiritual-whirlwinds?lang=eng

7.  “First, both the husband and wife consider their relationship to be a pearl beyond price, a treasure of infinite worth.  Next, faith.  Successful eternal marriages are built on the foundation of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.  Third, repentance.  Happy marriages rely on the gift of repentance.  Fourth, respect.  Husbands and wives treat each other as equal partners.  Fifth, love.  They live together in love.”  L Whitney Clayton, “Marriage: Watch and Learn,” www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/04/marriage-watch-and-learn?lang=eng

8. “Marriage was meant to be and can be a loving, binding, and harmonious relationship between a husband and a wife” David B. Haight, “Marriage and Divorce”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/1984/04/marriage-and-divorce?lang=eng&clang=eng

9.  “Marriage is sustained by faith and knowledge of its divine establishment, and is sustained daily by the energy of love.  A wise man explained, ‘When the satisfaction or the security of another person becomes as significant to one as one’s own satisfaction and security then the state of love exists.” (Harry Stack Sullivan, concepts of Modern Psychiatry).” David B. Haight, “Marriage and Divorce”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/1984/04/marriage-and-divorce?lang=eng&clang=eng

10. “In a society where marriage is often shunned, parenthood avoided, and families degraded, we have the responsibility to honor our marriages, nurture our children, and fortify our families.” W Douglas Shumway, “Marriage and Family: Our Sacred Responsibility”, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2004/04/marriage-and-family-our-sacred-responsibility?lang=eng&query=shumway+Marriage+and+family

Personal Statement:

A truly celestial and meaningful marriage takes a lot of work.  When I put the needs of my spouse before my own and he does likewise, then we both grow closer together and harmony is present in our home.  We are different from each other.  Our strengths and weaknesses can work together to form a stronger marriage partnership.  I am thankful for my marriage.  We have had our ups and downs but when we communicate well and work well together, we can overcome anything together.  I am thankful for the respect and nurturing my husband shows me.  I am blessed to have the marriage I have.