What Does It Mean When Leaders Repeat the Same Counsel?

Nearly 30 years ago, President Henry B. Eyring, who was then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, said something in general conference that I have not forgotten. I shared his insight as I recently spoke to the students of BYU–Idaho. “One of the ways we may know that the warning is from the Lord is that the law of witnesses, authorized witnesses, has been invoked. When the words of prophets seem repetitive, that should rivet our attention and fill our hearts with gratitude to live in such a blessed time” (“Finding Safety in Counsel,” Apr. 1997). In February, President Dallin H. Oaks repeated the warning issued by President Russell M. Nelson from general conference in April 2018: “In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.” So, what do you do to rivet your attention, to assure that you survive spiritually by having the constant influence of the Holy Ghost? You look carefully at your daily activities. Am I praying? Am I thoughtfully partaking of the sacrament? What am I putting into my mind? Am I associating with others who seek the constant influence of the Holy Ghost? What could be my distractions, my obstacles, or my deceptions? You pray for inspiration and courage to make any changes you need to make. Let us be true disciples of Jesus Christ. The Redeemer of Israel knows you, loves you, and will strengthen you as you seek to draw closer to Him. My desire is to bear testimony of President Dallin H. Oaks and the prophetic mantle he now carries, and to invite each of us to listen more carefully to the counsel of authorized witnesses. I feel a deep urgency to strengthen our faith, seek the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, and prepare spiritually for the days ahead. SUBSCRIBE to Elder Neil L. Andersen's YouTube channel for the latest videos. Follow Elder Neil L. Andersen on: Instagram:   / neillandersen   Facebook:   / neill.andersen   X: https://x.com/AndersenNeilL