“STIMULATOR” message for the week of August 31, 1971
Message from President Eugene C. Ludwig, dated August 31, 1971.
“…MAKE OUR LOVE FOR GOD STRONGER THAN ALL TEMPTATION…” “600” in 1971
Dear Fellow Missionaries,
We all know that temptation comes into all of our lives, and this is the way it should be. As the scriptures tell us, “And it must needs be that the devil should tempt the children of men, or they could not be agents unto themselves; for it they should never have bitter they could not know the sweet…” Doctrine and Covenants 29:39.
Each temptation starts with a prompting derived from what we may see, hear, feel, desire, etc. Sometimes lack of mental and emotional discipline, through rationalizing, and negative thoughts we allow these temptations to take hold of us. When we do succumb the results bring regret. Each of us must be continually aware of situations that could cause us to fall. When we find any situation that could lead to unrighteous behavior, we should do what is necessary, even though it is difficult. to repent and change in order that we do not lose the Spirit of the Lord.
“Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more. By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins — behold, he will confess them and forsake them.” (Doctrine and Covenants 58:42-43) Missionaries, we must be willing to sacrifice personal desires and pride and comply with what is expected of us and perform our duties in righteousness. When we resist we grow strong. To resist the small things is to obtain power to resist and avoid great temptations. President David O. McKay said, “…temptation often comes in the same quiet way. Perhaps the yielding to it may not be known by anyone save the individual and his God, but if he does yield to it, he becomes to that extent weakened and spotted with the evil of the world.” Be honest with those who preside over you. They have previously walked the path you now are walking and can help you. Also, the greatest help is self-help, mental determination, concertation not on your weakness, but on what is the cause your weakness, and then to do something to correct it. Seek help through specific prayers, and through the scriptures.
Develop a plan of self-improvement and go forth with self discipline and faith, and with the assistance of your Heavenly Father. Remember, “The Lord helps those who help themselves.” Personal effort in righteousness is an exemplification of our faith in Him. I commend you for your devotion and industry. Surely the Lord is blessing your efforts.
Faithfully yours,
Sincerely your brother,
President Eugene C. Ludwig
“UNLESS YOU CAN SAY ‘I AM MY MASTER” YOU CANNOT SAY ‘I AM THY SERVANT’.”
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