President Henry B. Eyring, Second Counselor in the First Presidency
In this talk, President Henry B. Eyring emphasizes the paramount importance of temple covenants. He shares personal experiences illustrating the peace and assurance that come from honoring these sacred commitments. He underscores that temple covenants bind families together for eternity and provide spiritual strength and protection against life’s challenges. President Eyring testifies of the power of temple ordinances, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the love and mercy of God for His covenant people.
The Importance of Temple Covenants
President Eyring begins by highlighting the significance of temple covenants, recounting a personal experience during the Teton Dam collapse. Despite the disaster, he felt peace knowing his family was sealed in the temple. This assurance comes from the eternal nature of temple covenants, which bind families together and provide spiritual protection.
“Whatever the outcome, all will be well because of the temple. We have made covenants with God and have been sealed as an eternal family.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Doctrine and Covenants 109:22: “And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them.”
- Malachi 4:6: “And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.”
The Peace and Spirituality of the Temple
President Eyring testifies of the peace and spiritual upliftment that come from attending the temple. He recounts his first experience in the Salt Lake Temple and the divine confirmation he received of its sacredness. This peace is available to all who attend the temple and keep their covenants.
“As we attend the temple, there can come to us a dimension of spirituality and a feeling of peace. … We will grasp the true meaning of the words of the Savior when He said: ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. … Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’”
Scriptural references for further study:
- John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
- Isaiah 26:3: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
The Power of Keeping Temple Covenants
President Eyring emphasizes that keeping temple covenants brings increased access to the power of Jesus Christ. He quotes President Nelson on the importance of temple covenants and their role in drawing us closer to God. Regular temple attendance strengthens and purifies us through the Holy Ghost.
“Each person who makes covenants … in temples—and keeps them—has increased access to the power of Jesus Christ.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Doctrine and Covenants 82:10: “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.”
- Mosiah 5:5: “And we are willing to enter into a covenant with our God to do his will, and to be obedient to his commandments in all things that he shall command us, all the remainder of our days, that we may not bring upon ourselves a never-ending torment, as has been spoken by the angel.”
Preparing to Serve the Lord
President Eyring shares a personal story about the counsel given by President Spencer W. Kimball during his and Kathy’s sealing. This counsel helped them be prepared to serve the Lord when unexpected calls came. Living in accordance with temple covenants prepares us to respond to the Lord’s direction.
“Hal and Kathy, live so that when the call comes, you can walk away easily.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 64:33: “Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.”
Calls to Action:
- Attend the temple frequently and keep your covenants with God.
- Live your life in a way that you are prepared to serve the Lord when the call comes.
- Strengthen and purify yourself through regular participation in temple ordinances.
- Trust in the promises of God and seek the peace and assurance that come from temple covenants.