The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof. -- 1 Corinthians 10:26.
The Lord's prophets teach that we are eternally indebted to our Heavenly Father to render to Him all that we have and are. We know that upon our return, we will enjoy the Lord's presence if we are striving to magnify our stewardship of gifts, callings and opportunities.As we recognize and ponder the gifts of a mortal body, agency, time, talents and means, we appreciate the magnitude of these marvelous gifts and we are humbled as we consider our stewardship and accountability. Our Father desires that all of His children enjoy the good things of life and that we have an opportunity to learn of Him and all truth. As we grow in knowledge and love of God our desires become that which God desires and our work is His work. Our Father knows and loves each of His children and through His Son He has provided for our happiness and peace in mortality and, ultimately, the opportunity for a fullness of joy.
Our Heavenly Father has asked that we see to the needs of our fellow men that we might share according to our ability and administer relief, both spiritually and temporally. He asks that we follow the example of His Son.
The Lord has provided Church Welfare Services as a way to share with others who are in need. He has provided the use of tithes and offerings that we might share with gladness. Great prosperity results from our love of God and our fellow men.
As wise servants we will honor, nurture, and strengthen our minds and bodies. We are to love and serve God with all our might, mind and strength. We cannot serve well without knowledge and strength.
As we choose to live this way we will have our lamps burning brightly at the return of the Lord. -- Alma Blaine Brimley, Phoenix, Arizona.