If one is devoid of hope and thanksgiving, he cannot for long remain sinless, for he will, in despair, have slackened his resolve. Feelings of futility foster vulnerability. Self-pity is such a busy stagehand, rearranging the scenery to help sin make its entrance. No wonder the prophets say that without faith in the Lord, there is no hope.
Neal A. MaxwellThough we have rightly applauded our ancestors for their spiritual achievements ... those of us who prevail today will have done no small thing.
Neal A. MaxwellWhen we rejoice in beautiful scenery, great art, and great music, it is but the flexing of instincts acquired in another place and another time.
Neal A. MaxwellThe harrowing of the soul can be like the harrowing of the soil; to increase the yield, things are turned upside down.
Neal A. MaxwellReal disciples absorb the fiery darts of the adversary by holding aloft the quenching shield of faith with one hand, while holding to the iron rod with the other (see Eph. 6:16; 1 Ne. 15:24; D&C 27:17). There should be no mistaking; it will take both hands!
Neal A. MaxwellThough we have rightly applauded our ancestors for their spiritual achievements (and do not and must not discount them now), those of us who prevail today will have done no small thing. The special spirits who have been reserved to live in this time of challenges and who overcome will one day be praised for their stamina by those who pulled handcarts.
Neal A. Maxwell