During the Saturday evening session of the October 2024 General Conference, Elder David A. Bednar drew upon lessons from the Book of Helaman in the Book of Mormon to warn against pride. He emphasized that prosperity can lead to a dangerous sense of self-sufficiency, which blinds us spiritually and accelerates a fall into pride.
Elder Bednar reminded listeners that believing oneself immune to pride is a sign of already being affected by it. He called for humility, focusing on faith in Christ as the foundation of spiritual strength.
As the late President Ezra Taft Benson taught, the Book of Mormon was written for the present day. It contains principles, warnings and lessons for the times in which Latter-day Saints do now and will yet live.
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The Book of Helaman provides a stark contrast between the rapid spiritual decline of the Nephites and the increasing righteousness of the Lamanites. While the Lamanites turned to God, the once-righteous Nephites became a hardened and wicked people in a short period of time because they allowed pride to enter their hearts.
If individuals are not faithful and obedient, they can transform prosperity into a prideful curse that diverts and distracts from eternal truths and spiritual priorities. Those who believe they are sufficiently strong to avoid pride may already be suffering from it.
“As we study and ponder this inspired record, we will be blessed with eyes to see, ears to hear, minds to comprehend and hearts to understand the lessons we should learn to ‘beware of pride, lest [we should] enter into temptation’ (Doctrine and Covenants 23:1). …
“I testify that as we walk in the meekness of the Lord’s Spirit, we will avoid and overcome pride and have peace in Him.”
Some quotes from Elder David A. Bednar’s Talk
“Ancient voices from the dust plead with us today to learn this everlasting lesson: Prosperity, possessions and ease constitute a potent mixture that can lead even the righteous to drink the spiritual poison of pride.”
“Please remember that the Book of Mormon looks to the future and contains important principles, warnings and lessons intended for me and you in the circumstances and challenges of our present day.”
“May I suggest that if you or I believe we are sufficiently strong and stalwart to avoid the arrogance of pride, then perhaps we already are suffering from this deadly spiritual disease.”
Read more of Elder Bednar’s general conference addresses, or follow him on Facebook, Instagram and X/Twitter.
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