“Example of the Church”

Example sheds a genial ray

Which men are apt to borrow;

So first improve yourself today,

And then your friends tomorrow.

“One of our best missionary tools is the sterling examples of members who live the gospel. This is what the Lord meant when He said to the Church, ‘Zion must increase in beauty, and in holiness… . Zion must put on her beautiful garments’ (D&C 82:14).” (Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, May 1985, p. 7)

“… how much easier it is to understand and accept if the seeker after truth can also see the principles of the gospel at work in the lives of other believers. No greater service can be given to the missionary calling of this Church than to be exemplary in positive Christian virtues in our lives.” (Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p. 555)

“… the time is coming when we will be mixed up in these now peaceful valleys to that extent that it will be difficult to tell the face of a Saint from the face of an enemy to the people of God. Then, brethren, look out for the great sieve, for there will be a great sifting time, and many will fall; for I say unto you there is a test, a TEST, A TEST coming, and who will be able to stand? … To meet the difficulties that are coming, it will be necessary for you to have a knowledge of the truth of this work for yourselves. The difficulties will be of such a character that the man or woman who does not possess this personal knowledge or witness will fall. If you have not got the testimony, live right and call upon the Lord and cease not till you obtain it. If you do not you will not stand… . The time will come when no man nor woman will be able to endure on borrowed light. Each will have to be guided by the light within himself. If you do not have it, how can you stand?” (Heber C. Kimball, Whitney, Life of Heber C. Kimball, pp. 446, 449-450)