Russell M Nelson Quotes

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An ideal marriage is a true partnership between two imperfect people, each striving to complement the other, to keep the commandments, and to do the will of the Lord ["Our Sacred Duty to Honor Woman," Ensign, May 1999).
Russel M. Nelson
From trial comes habit, from habit comes addiction, from addiction comes dependency.
Russell M. Nelson
You are God's agents in the care of children He has entrusted to you. Let His divine influence remain in your hears as you teach and persuade.
Russell M. Nelson
The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.
Russel M. Nelson
Truth is truth! It is not divisible, and any part of it cannot be set aside.
Russell M. Nelson
Obedience allows God’s blessings to flow without constraint. He will bless His obedient children with freedom from bondage and misery. And He will bless them with more light.
Russell M. Nelson
The only way to take sorrow out of death is to take love out of life.
Russell M. Nelson
Marriage is sanctified when it is cherished and honored in holiness. That union is not merely between husband and wife; it embraces a partnership with God (see Matt. 19:6).
Russell M. Nelson
We live in a time of turmoil. Earthquakes and tsunamis wreak devastation, governments collapse, economic stresses are severe, the family is under attack, and divorce rates are rising. We have great cause for concern. But we do not need to let our fears displace our faith. We can combat those fears by strengthening our faith.
Russell M. Nelson
Prepare yourselves to ennoble, to enrich, and even to become the heart and soul of the home. You many bless others either as mothers or the legislators; as leaders in the schoolroom or in the laboratory of truth; at the hearth or at the crib side.
Russell M. Nelson
Unfailing faith is fortified through prayer. Your heartfelt pleadings are important to Him. Think of the intense and impassioned prayers of the Prophet Joseph Smith during his dreadful days of incarceration in Liberty Jail. The Lord responded by changing the Prophet’s perspective. He said, ‘Know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.
Russell M. Nelson
Day after day, on your path toward your eternal destiny, increase your faith. Proclaim your faith! Let your faith show!
Russell M. Nelson
Differences of opinion may occur between husband and wife. But one's objective in marriage is never to win an argument, but to build an eternal relationship of love.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Plan for the rule, not the exception.
Russell M. Nelson
A temple is literally the House of the Lord, reserved for ordinances of eternal significance. Those ordinances include baptisms, marriage, endowments, and sealings. Each temple is symbolic of our faith in God and an evidence of our faith in life after death. The temple is the object of every activity, every lesson, every progressive step in the Church. All of our efforts in proclaiming the gospel, perfecting the Saints, and redeeming the dead lead to the holy temple. Ordinances of the temple are absolutely crucial. We cannot return to God's glory without them.
Russell M. Nelson
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 (D&C 4:5–6; emphasis added).
Russell M. Nelson
Because the evil one is ever at work, our vigilance cannot be relaxed--not even for a moment. A small and seemingly innocent invitation can turn into a tall temptation which can lead to tragic transgression. Night and day, at home or away, we must shun sin and hold fast that which is good.
Russell M. Nelson
A strong human spirit with control over appetites of the flesh is master over emotions and passions and not a slave to them. That kind of freedom is as vital to the spirit as oxygen is to the body! Freedom from self-slavery is true liberation!
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Danger lurks when we divide ourselves with expressions such as “my private life,” “my professional life,” or even “my best behavior.” Living life in separate compartments can lead to internal conflict and exhausting tension....Inner peace comes only as we maintain the integrity of truth in all aspects of our lives. When we covenant to follow the Lord and obey His commandments, we accept His standards in every thought, action, and deed.
Russell M. Nelson
Have faith to keep all the commandments of God, knowing that they are given to bless His children and bring them joy. [You] will encounter people who pick which commandments they will keep and ignore others that they choose to break. I call this the cafeteria approach to obedience. This practice of picking and choosing will not work. It will lead to misery. To prepare to meet God, one keeps all of His commandments. It takes faith to obey them, and keeping His commandments will strengthen that faith.
Russell M. Nelson
Considering all that the Savior has done—and still does—for us, what can we do for Him? The greatest gift we could give to the Lord at Christmas, or at any other time, is to keep ourselves unspotted from the world, worthy to attend His holy temple. And His gift to us will be the peace of knowing that we are prepared to meet Him, whenever that time comes.
Russell M. Nelson
As you make your testimony your highest priority, watch for miracles to happen in your life.
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
Difficult days are ahead. Sin is on the increase. Paul foresaw that members of the Church would endure persecution (see 2 Timothy 3:1–13; D&C 112:24–26). Peter counseled, ‘If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf’ (1 Peter 4:16). As Jesus descended below all things in order to rise above all things, He expects us to follow His example. Yoked with Him, each of us can rise above all of our challenges, no matter how difficult they may be (see Matthew 11:29–30).
Russell M. Nelson
How you deal with life’s trials is part of the development of your faith. Strength comes when you remember that you have a divine nature, an inheritance of infinite worth. The Lord has reminded you, your children, and your grandchildren that you are lawful heirs, that you have been reserved in heaven for your specific time and place to be born, to grow and become His standard bearers and covenant people. As you walk in the Lord’s path of righteousness, you will be blessed to continue in His goodness and be a light and a savior unto His people.
Russell M. Nelson
The beauty of our family is more than physical, it is spiritual.
Russell M. Nelson
when you love the Lord more than you love your spouse, your capacity to love will increase and you will increasingly love your spouse even more.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
Your choices will not all be between good and evil. Many will be choices between two good options. Not all truths are created equal, so you will need to establish priorities.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Make the Sabbath a delight by rendering service to others, especially those who are not feeling well or those who are lonely or in need. Lifting their spirits will lift yours as well.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Revelation need not all come at once. It may be incremental. 'Saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more' (2 Nephi 28:30). Patience and perseverance are part of our eternal progression.
Russell M. Nelson
Don’t be afraid to pursue your goals—even your dreams! But know that there is no shortcut to excellence and competence. Education is the difference between wishing you could help other people and being able to help them.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
From time to time, I hear people speculate on the question, "When does the prophet speak as a prophet, and when does he speak otherwise?" This query seems curious to me, as if one were presumptuous enough to sit in judgment on a prophet. In my close associations with President Kimball, spanning two decades and the spectrum from suffering to sublimity, I have never asked that question. The only question I have asked has been, "How can I be more like him?
Russell M. Nelson
Revelation from God is always compatible with His eternal law. It never contradicts His doctrine. It is facilitated by proper reverence for Deity. The Master gave this instruction:" 'I, the Lord, am merciful and gracious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and in truth unto the end." 'Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their glory." '. . . To them will I reveal all mysteries [and] my will concerning all things pertaining to my kingdom' (D&C 76:5–7).
Russell M. Nelson
[A] beautiful young mother of five had full faith in her Heavenly Father, in His plan, and in the eternal welfare of her family. She was securely tied back to God. She was totally faithful to covenants made with the Lord and with her husband. She loved her children but was at peace, despite her impending separation from them. She had faith in her future, and theirs too, because she had faith in our Heavenly Father and His Son.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Especially when the laws of man are created and enforced, God’s laws must ever be our standard. In dealing with controversial issues, we should first search for God’s guidance.
Russell M. Nelson
Gratitude is key to happiness
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
Elder Russell M. Nelson: “Remember, God’s holy angels are ever on call to help us. When we are faithful, God and His angels will help us.”14
Donald W. Parry (Angels: Agents of Light, Love, and Power)
Education is the difference between wishing you could help other people and being able to help them.”—Russell M. Nelson
Mark Bacera (The Latter-day Morning: Create a Happier, More Successful, Spiritual Life Before Breakfast)
Our sojourn in mortality is a period of probation, a time of trial and testing to see if we will do whatever the Lord commands us to do.
Russell M. Nelson
Your ultimate safety lies in never taking even the first enticing step in a direction you do not want to go.
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
Therefore he knew that the blessing of the heartbeat was predicated upon law. The job of the researcher was to harness the power contained in the understanding of those laws.
Spencer J. Condie (Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle)
Wickedness never was happiness.” Many have tried to challenge that truth and have failed every time!
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
As you teach more, you will learn more. This is the Lord's way of helping you to comprehend His gospel.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Joy has little to do with the circumstance of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.
Russell M. Nelson
We should “liken all scriptures unto us … for our profit and learning.” Danger lurks when we try to divide ourselves with expressions such as “my private life” or even “my best behavior.” If one tries to segment his or her life into such separate compartments, one will never rise to the full stature of one’s personal integrity—never to become all that his or her true self could be.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Latter-Day Saints proclaim that "marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children." We also know that "gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose." Marriage between a man and a woman is fundamental to the Lord's doctrine and crucial to God's eternal plan. Marriage between a man and a woman is God's pattern for a fullness of life on earth and in heaven. God's marriage pattern cannot be abused, misunderstood, or misconstrued.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
In other words,” he later explained, “whenever a blessing is received, it’s because a law has been obeyed. And that means certain procedures will always work—not just most of the time, not just some of the time, but every single time without exception.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
the rest of your life, your most difficult challenge will probably be to follow the prophet. There is going to be an increasing gap between his counsel and what the world insists is acceptable and reasonable. There will likely be moments when you don’t agree with something he says. But I hope you’ll remember what I’m telling you today, that your greatest safety will be in following the prophet. The prophet will always see things you can’t see and help you avoid pitfalls you otherwise might not recognize in time.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
In our day civil governments have a vested interest in protecting marriage because strong families constitute the best way of providing for the health, education, welfare, and prosperity of rising generations. But civil governments are heavily influenced by social trends and secular philosophies as they write, rewrite, and enforce laws. Regardless of what civil legislation may be enacted, the doctrine of the Lord regarding marriage and morality cannot be changed. Remember: sin, even if legalized by man, is still sin in the eyes of God!
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Not pursuing your “own pleasure” on the Sabbath requires self-discipline. You may have to deny yourself of something you might like. If you choose to delight yourself in the Lord, you will not permit yourself to treat it as any other day. Routine and recreational activities can be done some other time. Think of this: In paying tithing, we return one-tenth of our increase to the Lord. In keeping the Sabbath holy, we reserve one day in seven as His. So it is our privilege to consecrate both money and time to Him who lends us life each day.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
In addition to time with family, you can experience true delight on the Sabbath from family history work. Searching for and finding family members who have preceded you on earth—those who did not have an opportunity to accept the gospel while here—can bring immense joy.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
On one occasion a medical colleague chastised Dr. Nelson for failing to separate his professional knowledge from his religious convictions. “That startled me,” he admitted, “because I did not feel that truth should be fractionalized. Truth is indivisible” (Hafen, Disciple’s Life, 165).
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
before many doctors were too busy to serve. Russell Nelson changed all of that in his service as stake president and general president of the Sunday School. He blessed the church..I give Russell M. Nelson credit for changing the stereotype that doctors are too busy to serve in the church,
Spencer J. Condie (Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle)
As leaders have sought revelation, the guidance received over the past few years is to strengthen the sacrament meeting, honor the Sabbath day, and encourage and assist parents and individuals to make their homes a source of spiritual strength and increased faith—a place of joy and happiness.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
Don’t worry about me, Brother Nelson, for I know why I was sent to the earth—to gain experiences and work out my salvation. I can work out my salvation with my mind and not with my legs. I’ll be all right!” Russell recorded afterward that “the faith of that young man has motivated me ever since
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
In all professional endeavors, rigorous standards of accuracy are required. Scholars cherish their freedom of expression. But full freedom cannot be experienced if part of one’s knowledge is ruled “out-of-bounds” by edicts of men. Spiritual truth cannot be ignored—especially divine commandments.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Education is yours to obtain. No one else can gain it for you. Wherever you are, develop a deep desire to learn. For us as Latter-day Saints, gaining an education is not just a privilege; it is a religious responsibility. “The glory of God is intelligence.” Indeed, our education is for the eternities.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
The word religion literally means “to ligate again” or “to tie back” to God. The question we might ask ourselves is, are we securely tied to God so that our faith shows, or are we actually tied to something else? For example, I have overheard conversations on Monday mornings about professional athletic games that took place on the preceding Sunday. For some of these avid fans, I have wondered if their “religion” would “tie them back” only to some kind of a bouncing ball... There is only One in whom your faith is always safe, and that is in the Lord Jesus Christ. And you need to let your faith show!
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
How do we hallow the Sabbath day? In my much younger years, I studied the work of others who had compiled lists of things to do and things not to do on the Sabbath. It wasn’t until later that I learned from the scriptures that my conduct and my attitude on the Sabbath constituted a sign between me and my Heavenly Father. With that understanding, I no longer needed lists of dos and don’ts. When I had to make a decision whether or not an activity was appropriate for the Sabbath, I simply asked myself, “What sign do I want to give to God?” That question made my choices about the Sabbath day crystal clear.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, but we are not. Each day, ours is the challenge to access the power of the Atonement so that we can truly change, become more Christlike, and qualify for the gift of exaltation and live eternally with God, Jesus Christ, and our families. For these powers, privileges, and gospel gifts, thanks be to God!
Russell M. Nelson
...[S]o many people look only to their bank balance for peace or to fellow human beings for models to follow. Clinicians, academicians, and politicians are often put to a test of faith. In pursuit of their goals, will their religion show or will it be hidden? Are they tied back to God or to man? I had such a test decades ago when one of my medical faculty colleagues chastised me for failing to separate my professional knowledge from my religious convictions. He demanded that I not combine the two. How could I do that? Truth is truth! It is not divisible, and any part of it cannot be set aside. Whether truth emerges from a scientific laboratory or through revelation, all truth emanates from God.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
In Hebrew, the word Sabbath means “rest.” The purpose of the Sabbath dates back to the Creation of the world, when after six days of labor the Lord rested from the work of creation. When He later revealed the Ten Commandments to Moses, God commanded that we “remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.” Later, the Sabbath was observed as a reminder of the deliverance of Israel from their bondage in Egypt. Perhaps most important, the Sabbath was given as a perpetual covenant, a constant reminder that the Lord may sanctify His people. In addition, we now partake of the sacrament on the Sabbath day in remembrance of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Again, we covenant that we are willing to take upon us His holy name.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
As you move along life’s journey, you will also become acquainted with people who do not believe in God. Many of them have not yet found divine truth and don’t know where to look for it. You could be of help to them there. But as you mingle with nonbelievers, be aware that a few may not have your best interest at heart. As soon as you discern that, flee from them quickly and permanently.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
purpose: to kidnap her, and to kill me. After they maliciously molested us in those evil objectives, they became totally foiled. A gun to my head failed to fire. And my wife was suddenly released from their hideous grasp. Then they disappeared as quickly as they had appeared. We were mercifully rescued from potential disaster.39 We know we were protected by angels round about us. Yes, the Lord’s precious promise had been invoked in our behalf.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible)
Parents have such wonderful resources available to help them make family time more meaningful, on the Sabbath and other days as well. They have LDS.org, Mormon.org, the Bible videos, the Mormon Channel, the Media Library, the Friend, the New Era, the Ensign, the Liahona, and more—much more. These resources are so very helpful to parents in discharging their sacred duty to teach their children. No other work transcends that of righteous, intentional parenting!
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
...President Thomas S. Monson said: “Of course we will face fear, experience ridicule, and meet opposition. Let us have the courage to defy the consensus, the courage to stand for principle. Courage, not compromise, brings the smile of God’s approval. … Remember that all men have their fears, but those who face their fears with [faith] have courage as well.” President Monson’s counsel is timeless! So I plead with you, my dear brothers and sisters: Day after day, on your path toward your eternal destiny, increase your faith. Proclaim your faith! Let your faith show!
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
The temptation to be popular may prioritize public opinion above the word of God. Political campaigns and marketing strategies widely employ public opinion polls to shape their plans. Results of those polls are informative. But they could hardly be used as grounds to justify disobedience to God’s commandments! Even if “everyone is doing it,” wrong is never right. Evil, error, and darkness will never be truth, even if popular. A scriptural warning so declares: “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness.” After World War I, a rather risqué song became popular. In promoting immorality, it vowed that 50 million people cannot be wrong. But in fact, 50 million people can be wrong—totally wrong. Immorality is still immorality in the eyes of God, who one day will judge all of our deeds and desires.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
After Laurie was born, Russell and Dantzel were waiting for the nurse to bring their new baby to them. Dantzel had been under anesthetic during delivery and hadn’t yet seen her little girl. Suddenly she said, “I hear our baby crying.” “You’re kidding,” Russell replied. “You haven’t even seen her yet.” But Dantzel insisted, “That’s our baby. I know her voice.” She asked Russell to check, so he walked into the corridor and down to a large cart that carried babies in their bassinets from the nursery to their mothers’ rooms. There was only one baby crying. “They all looked alike to me, so I checked the I.D. tag and found that the one crying was labeled ‘Baby Girl Nelson, Room 571.’ That was an inspiration to me. Dantzel knew her child’s voice even before she had ever heard it. I couldn’t help but think about the Savior’s statement that ‘my sheep know my voice.’” In this case, the “shepherd” knew the voice of her sheep.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
Not long ago I heard a mission president ask a group of his elders and sisters what they thought the most difficult commandment to live would be after they were released as full-time missionaries and then throughout their lives. Their answers were varied, with many revolving around the challenge to live the law of chastity. The mission president listened intently, and after the missionaries had each shared his or her response, he said: “You will each have challenges, and, for some of you, temptations with morality will be among them. But I invite you to consider something: Throughout the rest of your life, your most difficult challenge will probably be to follow the prophet. There is going to be an increasing gap between his counsel and what the world insists is acceptable and reasonable. There will likely be moments when you don’t agree with something he says. But I hope you’ll remember what I’m telling you today, that your greatest safety will be in following the prophet. The prophet will always see things you can’t see and help you avoid pitfalls you otherwise might not recognize in time.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
Perhaps no topic touches on the importance of choice in longevity as directly as does that of suicide. The act of taking one's own life is truly a tragedy because it creates so many victims. Family and countless friends are left to bear feelings of undeserved misery and guilt. The commandment "Thou shalt not kill" is written in nine verses of scripture. Not one of them grants self-exclusion. The rational mind knows it is wrong. Unfortunately, forces of stress and depression incite behavior that is not always rational. . . . We know that the good done and the desires of the heart will also be weighed when final judgment is rendered. Alma taught: [Alma 41:2-3.] . . . Repentance operates in the spirit world as well as on earth. . . . Suicide is a choice--a grievous choice--that abbreviates longevity. Its victims include those who suffer because of that choice. They need and deserve the reassurance of the gospel and the knowledge that life for their loved one continues. Immortality of the soul applies to all, as does the privilege of repentance and forgiveness.
Russell M. Nelson
As our great Exemplar, Jesus taught us how to live, to love, and to learn. He taught us how to pray, to forgive, and to endure to the end.10 He taught us how to care about others more than we care about ourselves. He taught us about mercy and kindness—making real changes in our lives through His power. He taught us how to find peace of heart and mind.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible)
Because one’s spirit is so important, its development is of eternal consequence. It is strengthened as we communicate in humble prayer with our loving Heavenly Father.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible)
we join this Church to make and keep sacred covenants that will qualify us for eternal life.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible)
Focusing on the Lord and everlasting life can help us through all the challenges of mortality.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible)
Teach of faith to keep all the commandments of God, knowing that they are given to bless His children and bring them joy.4 Warn them that they will encounter people who pick which commandments they will keep and ignore others that they choose to break. I call this the cafeteria approach to obedience. This practice of picking and choosing will not work. It will lead to misery. To prepare to meet God, one keeps all of His commandments. It takes faith to obey them, and keeping His commandments will strengthen that faith.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Obedience allows God’s blessings to flow without constraint. He will bless His obedient children with freedom from bondage and misery. And He will bless them with more light. For example, one keeps the Word of Wisdom knowing that obedience will not only bring freedom from addiction, but it will also add blessings of wisdom and treasures of knowledge.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Unfailing faith is fortified through prayer. Your heartfelt pleadings are important to Him. Think of the intense and impassioned prayers of the Prophet Joseph Smith during his dreadful days of incarceration in Liberty Jail. The Lord responded by changing the Prophet’s perspective. He said, “Know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.” If we pray with an eternal perspective, we need not wonder if our most tearful and heartfelt pleadings are heard. This promise from the Lord is recorded in section 98 of the Doctrine and Covenants: “Your prayers have entered into the ears of the Lord … and are recorded with this seal and testament—the Lord hath sworn and decreed that they shall be granted. “Therefore, he giveth this promise unto you, with an immutable covenant that they shall be fulfilled; and all things wherewith you have been afflicted shall work together for your good, and to my name’s glory, saith the Lord.” The Lord chose His strongest words to reassure us! Seal! Testament! Sworn! Decreed! Immutable covenant! Brothers and sisters, believe Him! God will heed your sincere and heartfelt prayers, and your faith will be strengthened.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
To develop enduring faith, an enduring commitment to be a full-tithe payer is essential. Initially it takes faith to tithe. Then the tithe payer develops more faith to the point that tithing becomes a precious privilege. Tithing is an ancient law from God. He made a promise to His children that He would open “the windows of heaven, and pour … out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” Not only that, tithing will keep your name enrolled among the people of God and protect you in “the day of vengeance and burning.” Why do we need such resilient faith? Because difficult days are ahead. Rarely in the future will it be easy or popular to be a faithful Latter-day Saint. Each of us will be tested. The Apostle Paul warned that in the latter days, those who diligently follow the Lord “shall suffer persecution.” That very persecution can either crush you into silent weakness or motivate you to be more exemplary and courageous in your daily lives.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible: What God Does, What We Can Do)
Often help from the Lord came in unexpected ways. The time came in Poland to open a mission there, but how do you open a mission without a mission president who can speak Polish? And where does one find such a person? This was on Elder Nelson’s mind when, on October 27, 1989, he attended the inauguration of BYU President Rex E. Lee in Provo, Utah. At a reception celebrating President Lee’s appointment, Elder Nelson just happened to meet Walter Whipple, a professor of Polish in the department of Germanic and Slavic Languages. Dr. Whipple had just returned to BYU after a teaching stint in Poland. Who became the first mission president in Poland? President Walter Whipple, who was also a professional organist and accomplished cellist. “The Lord doth provide,” Elder Nelson summarized. “I’ve seen this over and over again. When we didn’t know what in the world to do next, the Lord stepped in and handed the answer to us on a silver platter. We would have had to be blind not to see it.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
There is always a test. Are you willing to do really hard things? Once you’ve shown you’re willing to do your part, He will help you.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
One beautiful winter morning when Utah’s deep powder snow was perfect for experienced skiers, he and Elder W. Craig Zwick headed to a nearby resort for a day on the slopes. As they hopped on the four-person chairlift for their umpteenth ride up the mountain, a young man skied up and got on with them. They remarked how wonderful it was that Monday morning to be out in the fresh Utah snow, and the young man responded, “Yes, but my life is in a shambles.” Elder Zwick remembered, “I felt like saying, ‘This is your lucky day,’ and about then the man realized he was on the chairlift with President Nelson and gasped. “In about four minutes,” Elder Zwick related, “President Nelson taught that young man the importance of the Book of Mormon and promised that if he would read it every day, his problems wouldn’t go away but they would be alleviated. That is how clearly he taught” (Church News/KSL Interview, January 5, 2018).
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
The Lord likes effort. He could have said to Moses, ‘I’ll meet you halfway.’ But Moses had to go all the way to the top of Mount Sinai. He required effort from Moses and Joshua and Joseph Smith and from all of the subsequent Presidents of the Church. He requires effort from bishops and stake Relief Society presidents and elders quorum presidents. There is always a test. Are you willing to do really hard things? Once you’ve shown you’re willing to do your part, He will help you.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
That serves to illustrate there is this element of faith and this element of power. When you have people praying for you and you're praying yourself, coupled with the power of fasting, which makes you more humble and more teachable, you can learn things, even if it is given to you by revelation. ~~Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle by Spencer Condie
Spencer Condie
That serves to illustrate there is this element of faith and this element of power. When you have people praying for you and you're praying yourself, coupled with the power of fasting, which makes you more humble and more teachable, you can learn things, even if it is given to you by revelation. ~~from Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon Apostle (2003)
Russell M. Nelson
Elder Oaks describes his colleague as a 'spiritually sensitive man of great faith who does not let his remarkable worldly knowledge deflect him from the impressions of the Spirit or from his insights of the gospel. His spiritual influence is that everyone becomes more spiritual in his presence. When he comes into the room, you remember who You are (my emphasis). He is a radiant spiritual being.' Quote from Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle
Russell M. Nelson
Though he sets high standards for himself, his compassion for those who struggle and fall short is a hallmark of his life. After a discussion with some brethren regarding the brusqueness of a certain priesthood leader, Elder Nelson summarized the discussion by saying, 'And of course, we wouldn't want him any other way.' In this regard, he shares the charity ezxhibited by President David O. McKay, who when told of a fault of a given individual, replied, 'Well, a dog has to have a few fleas to know he's a dog. Quote from Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle
Russell M. Nelson
The time to listen is when someone needs to be heard. ... Above all, god's children should learn to listen, then listen to learn from the Lord. Quote from Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle
Russell M. Nelson
The time to listen is when someone needs to be heard. ... Above all, God's children should learn to listen, then listen to learn from the Lord. ~~Quote from Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle” ― Russell M. Nelson
Russell M. Nelson
When like-minded men who are all dedicated and committed to the same cause have a difference of opinion, that just means we need more information,” President Nelson explained. “We don’t need to debate it longer at that point, we need to go back and study it more and gather more information, because we don’t yet have enough information to agree.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
His Church is not intended to be a sanctuary for the sinless; it is to be a hospital of hope for those who want to get well.
Russell M. Nelson (Daily Joy: A Devotional for Each Day of the Year)
Maxwell, “Meek and Lowly” (Brigham Young University devotional, October 21, 1986), speeches.byu.edu.
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
Gratitude can be healing.
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
Counting our blessings is far better than recounting our trials.
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
As grand as the Creation of the earth was, it is only part of something even more magnificent. The earth was created that families might be. For a husband and wife 'shall be one flesh, and all this that the earth might answer the end of its creation.
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
Jesus Christ frequently expressed gratitude. Before raising Lazarus from the dead, before miraculously multiplying loaves and fishes, and before passing the cup to His disciples at the Last Supper, the Savior prayed and gave thanks to God, His Heavenly Father.
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
Saints can be happy under every circumstance.” We can feel joy even while having a bad day, a bad week, or a bad year!
Russell M. Nelson (Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me)
Personal revelation can be honed to become spiritual discernment. To discern means to sift, to separate, or to distinguish.7 The gift of spiritual discernment is a supernal gift.8 It allows members of the Church to see things not visible and to feel things not tangible. Bishops are entitled to that gift as they face the task of seeking out the poor and caring for the needy. With that gift, sisters and brothers may view trends in the world and detect those that, however popular, are shallow or even dangerous. Members can discern between schemes that are flashy and fleeting and those refinements that are uplifting and enduring.
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible)
A pivotal spiritual attribute is that of self-mastery—the strength to place reason over appetite. Self-mastery builds a strong conscience. And your conscience determines your moral responses in difficult, tempting, and trying situations. Fasting helps your spirit to develop dominance over your physical appetites. Fasting also increases your access to heaven’s help, as it intensifies your prayers. Why the need for self-mastery? God implanted strong appetites within us for nourishment and love, vital for the human family to be perpetuated.16 When we master our appetites within the bounds of God’s laws, we can enjoy longer life, greater love, and consummate joy.17
Russell M. Nelson (Accomplishing the Impossible)
She seemed born to be a mother and chose to love almost everything about it.
Sheri Dew (Insights from a Prophet’s Life: Russell M. Nelson)
As a husband and wife immerse themselves deeply and totally in their love of the Lord, their capacity to love each other will increase. Those who put the Lord first will be rewarded eternally for so structuring and selflessly styling their marriage.
Russell M. Nelson (Hope In Our Hearts)
Think celestial
Russel M. Nelson