Elder Quentin L. Cook
Elder Quentin L. Cook, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, encourages us to be “peaceable followers of Christ” in the face of life’s trials and tribulations. He shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of maintaining faith, living the commandments, and spreading Christ’s teachings. Drawing from scripture, he highlights the enduring nature of God’s plan and assures us that being peaceable followers of Christ leads to personal peace and a glorious heavenly reunion.
The Challenges of Peaceable Followers
Elder Cook acknowledges the unique challenges faced by those who follow Christ. He shares personal experiences of loss and adversity, emphasizing that such trials are a part of mortal life. Despite these challenges, peaceable followers of Christ do not succumb to worldly or nonbeliever paths but remain engaged members of their communities, sharing Christ’s teachings.
“Many will succumb to an ‘eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die’ approach. Other nonbelievers retreat to somber enclaves of like-minded participants who advocate for the next ‘new thing’ and philosophies of men. They know not where to find the truth.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Hebrews 4:16: “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”
The Plan of Happiness
Elder Cook discusses the eternal plan of happiness, emphasizing that even those who appear disadvantaged are not ultimately impacted. The righteous, regardless of their situation in life, will be blessed. He references King Benjamin’s promise that those who faithfully keep the commandments are blessed in this life and inherit eternal happiness.
“Peaceable followers of Christ who are righteous, follow the Savior, and keep His commandments will be blessed.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Mosiah 2:41: “And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 1:14: “And the arm of the Lord shall be revealed; and the day cometh that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord, neither the voice of his servants, neither give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles, shall be cut off from among the people.”
Preparation for Life’s Storms
Elder Cook advises on preparing for life’s challenges by following the counsel of prophets and heeding scripture. He mentions the importance of praise, music, and thanksgiving, as well as turning to the Lord in prayer for joy during sorrowful times.
“The Lord provides His people a chance to prepare for the challenges they will face… Being joyful and relying on heavenly help through prayer is a powerful way to be peaceable followers of Christ. Striving always to be of good cheer helps avoid being cast down in spirit.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Doctrine and Covenants 1:37: “Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 87:8: “Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come; for behold, it cometh quickly, saith the Lord.”
Trusting in God’s Plan
Elder Cook emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s comprehensive plan and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He cites the example of Joseph Smith’s experiences in Liberty Jail as an illustration of enduring tribulation with faith and confidence in a bright future.
“It is clear we have a Father in Heaven who knows and loves us personally and understands our suffering perfectly. His Son, Jesus Christ, is our Savior and Redeemer.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Doctrine and Covenants 122:7: “And if the very jaws of hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.”
- Matthew 11:28: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
The Promise of Peace
Elder Cook concludes by reaffirming that “peaceable followers of Christ” will find personal peace in this life and experience a glorious heavenly reunion. He bears a powerful witness of the divinity of Jesus Christ and the reality of His Atonement.
Calls to Action:
- Strive to be peaceable followers of Christ in the face of life’s trials and challenges.
- Maintain faith, live the commandments, and share Christ’s teachings with others in your community.
- Trust in God’s plan and the Atonement of Jesus Christ, knowing that personal peace and a glorious heavenly reunion await those who follow Christ faithfully.