Elder Neal A. Maxwell (1926–2004) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke of the characteristics that define those who truly believe in the Savior:
“True believers are settled in their views of Christ. Despite their weaknesses, their spirituality is centered on the Savior, so their views of everything else are put in that precious perspective.
“True believers gladly perform their duties in the kingdom. These duties are usually measurable and straightforward. They include partaking worthily of the sacrament, rendering Christian service, studying the scriptures, praying, fasting, receiving ordinances, attending to family duties, paying tithes and offerings. …
“True believers are humble. They are ‘meek and lowly of heart’ [Moroni 7:43]. … They are not easily offended. They do not resist counsel. …
“True believers are willing to do what Christ wants. … Are we willing to let the Lord lead us into further developmental experiences? Or do we shrink back? The things which enlarge the soul inevitably involve stretching.
“True believers have a balanced contentment. They strike a balance between being too content and wishing for a more important role. …
“True believers truly pray. Their prayers are sincere. … The true believer’s prayers, at least some of the time, are inspired.
“True believers have both right conduct and right reasons for that conduct. They are so secure in their relationship with the Lord that their goodness would continue even if nobody were watching. …
“True believers rejoice in the success of others. … They don’t regard colleagues as competitors.
“True believers remember that forgetting is part of forgiving. They follow the Lord’s example: ‘I [will] remember [their sins] no more’ (D&C 58:42). …
“True believers are innocent as to sin, but not naive. They are kind, but candid. They love their fellowmen. …
“True believers are happy. Instead of a ‘woeful countenance,’ true believers in Christ have a disciplined enthusiasm to work righteousness. They are serious about how they live life, but are also of good cheer” (“True Believers,” New Era, Apr., 1994, 20–24).