Finding the Family in Come Follow Me: Mosiah 29-Alma 4
In a world filled with diverse voices and beliefs, as followers of Christ we have the opportunity to share testimonies to help others find Him. Just as Alma called upon the “voice of the people” in his day, today, The Family: A Proclamation to the World calls upon us “… to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family …”
Note that this inspired counsel says “promote.” Is that different from “defend?”
In this week’s lesson Alma knew “bearing down” in pure testimony was the only way to reclaim the people from pride, craftiness, and contention that had entered in. How does his example illustrate a motivation for pure testimony that isn’t about being right but more so about promoting what’s right?
President Dallin H. Oaks offers insight:
“When believers promote their positions in the public square, they should always be tolerant of the opinions and positions of those who do not share their beliefs. Believers must always speak with love and show patience, understanding, and compassion toward their adversaries. Christian believers are under command to love their neighbors (see Luke 10:27) and to forgive (see Matthew 18:21–35). They should also remember the Savior’s teaching to ‘bless them that curse [them], do good to them that hate [them], and pray for them which despitefully use [them], and persecute [them]’ (Matthew 5:44).” (Balancing Truth and Tolerance)
As we raise our voices in testimony, if we ask for help to be motivated by love and a desire to uplift others, our voice can help light the path for those seeking Christ.