SALT LAKE CITY (ABC 4 NEWS) - Thousands of LDS faithful ended the 178th Semi-Annual General Conference considering counsel given by their leaders: how to live in these unstable times. Church leaders often talk of the future. This conference weekend had many messages of the here and now.It was two days of encouragement and spiritual instruction for Latter-day Saints in light of some of the ominous things happening in the world right now. They were told not to fear for the future but, "find joy in the journey---now."
“I speak about those things which have been on my mind and which I have felt impressed to share with you,” said President Monson in the Sunday morning session. The LDS resident told those gathered in the Conference Center and in areas around the world change is inevitable. “I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that elusive and non-existent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey----now.”
Members were not promised circumstances would improve. Elder Quinton Cook told the congregation, “Many listening to this conference are experiencing situations of a most serious nature at this very moment.” And Elder Henry B. Eyring said, “We see increased conflict between peoples in the world around us. Those divisions and differences could infect us.”
But members were given counsel on how to cope with today's uncertainties. “The Lord isn't asking us to load up a handcart: he's asking us to fortify our faith. He isn't asking us to die a martyr's death; he's asking us to live a disciple's life,” said M. Russell Ballard in his talk. “I testify that the Atonement of Jesus Christ covers all the trials and hardships that any of us will encounter in life,” said Elder Cook.
Stefanie Crow was in attendance and said she was edified and inspired by the instruction she received this weekend. “It made me feel comforted that as we unify together regardless of what's going on with the economy…we're going to be okay.”
“You just come away feeling so much better about yourself and feeling loved,” said Natalia O’Harra, “…you really feel the presence of the Lord. It’s really amazing.”
President Monson concluded the two day General Conference urging members to be good citizens, good neighbors and to reach out to those of other faiths, to be mindful of others needs, and be ready to extend a helping hand and loving heart. He also exhorted all listening to keep the commandments. “I assure you that our Heavenly Father is mindful of the challenges we face in the world today. He loves each of us and will bless us as we strive to keep his commandments... seek him through prayer.”
