- “There are two influences in the world today and have been from the beginning. One is an influence that is constructive, that radiates happiness, and that builds character. The other influence is one that destroys, turns men into demons, tears down, and discourages. We are all susceptible to both. The one comes from our Heavenly Father and the other comes from the source of evil that has been in the world from the beginning seeking to bring about the destruction of the human family. We will all be tempted; no man is free from temptation. The adversary will use every means possible to deceive us; he tried to do that with the Savior of the world without success. He has tried it on many other men who have possessed divine authority….”Teachings of Presidents of the Church: George Albert Smith, Chapter 18: Stay on the Lord’s Side of the Line
- “I think also of that night when Christ rushed to the aid of His frightened disciples, walking as He did on the water to get to them, calling out, “It is I; be not afraid.” Peter exclaimed, “Lord if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.” Christ’s answer to him was as it always is, every time: “Come,” He said. Instantly, as was his nature, Peter sprang over the vessel’s side and into the troubled waters. While his eyes were fixed upon the Lord, the wind could toss his hair and the spray could drench his robes, but all was well—he was coming to Christ. It was only when his faith wavered and fear took control, only when he removed his glance from the Master to look at the furious waves and the ominous black gulf beneath, only then did he begin to sink into the sea. In newer terror, he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Undoubtedly with some sadness, the Master over every problem and fear, He who is the solution to every discouragement and disappointment, stretched out His hand and grasped the drowning disciple with the gentle rebuke, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” (; emphasis added).” Broken Things to Mend(Jeffrey R. Holland)- Kindle Location: 94-103
- “December 12th, 1994 – Monday. Puyo Ecuador…Dad wrote me some good advice today. He told me “feeling discouraged or unsuccessful comes from within you – you determine your attitude and no one or nothing can unless you allow it to. So, trust in the Lord – I dare you to try Him.” These words are so true. I should always be happy and – BE MYSELF!!! I’ve just got to press forward and work my tail off. The blessings will come. Maybe I’m just looking for baptisms as the only blessings. I need to notice the little blessings! I’ve got a ton!” Clinton Brown Missionary Journal
- “Those times when we most want to shake our fists at heaven because of sorrow, agony, and discouragement are the very instances when we ought to drop to our knees.” Tom Christofferson, A Better Heart
- December 28, 1995 – Thursday – Quito Ecuador… “A lot of appointments dogged us today. Satan was trying to deanimarnos (discourage us). But he can’t. THis morning we had Zone Study. Our Zone is sweet. We have a lot of fun together. Elder Herrera and I walked all over the place today. We had 3 charlas. Yesterday we had 6. Yesterday, during the Joseph Smith principle at the Bustamante’s house, the Spirit was so strong. It was in my whole body testifying that Joseph Smith is a true prophet. I have no doubt of that!!! We committed Marcelo Sifuentes and Mirian Zambrano to be baptized on the 7th of January. They’re neat people, and will be baptized. I love this work. At times I’m so tired, or want to give up, but no way. It’s like the 4th Quarter. Bear down and get ‘em. Before the mission I was worried because I had no excitement for the church. It was all Sports! I could get hyped up for Sports but not church. I prayed a lot during high school that the Lord would convert my excitement for Sports to excitement to Spread the Gospel. I tell you what, the Lord has answered my prayers. My adrenaline gets flowing to leave the house, hunt down the chosen, teach with the Spirit, and help people progress. I love it when the other team – Satan – tries to impede us or beat us. I get pumped to find out how to beat him.” – Clinton Brown Missionary Journal
- “This counsel was representative of President Hinckley’s approach to life. President Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared the following observation about President Hinckley and his wife, Marjorie: They do not waste time pondering the past or fretting about the future. And they persevere in spite of adversity. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, also of the Quorum of the Twelve, commented: Things will work out may well be President Hinckley’s most repeated assurance to family, friends, and associates. Keep trying, he will say. Be believing. Be happy. Don’t get discouraged. Things will work out.” – Gordon B. Hinckley