Even as newspaper and television reports chronicle the wars of the world, a more significant battle is being waged: the war between good and bad. The decisions young people make — be they good or bad — will have "significant eternal consequences," said Young Men General President Charles W. Dahlquist II.
Brother Dahlquist offered counsel to hundreds gathered May 12 at the Tabernacle on Temple Square for a youth devotional. The event was part of a series of monthly devotionals intended for young people living along Utah's Wasatch Front.
Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve presided at the event.
Despite the world's temptations and challenges, the Lord's children are not left alone, Brother Dahlquist said. "Our Heavenly Father has given us many things to help in overcoming these temptations that would draw us down."
The scriptures and the gift of the Holy Ghost provide answers to life's many problems, he added.
"We live in a noisy world with cell phones and beepers going off all the time. One where temptations seem almost to be shouting for our attention," Brother Dahlquist said. "It is interesting that the most important voice is still and small."
Another tool that helps young people define right and wrong are the principles taught in the For the Strength of Youth brochure. Brother Dahlquist cited the First Presidency's promise that as youth keep the standards taught in the pamphlet — and live by the truths in the scriptures — they will have courage, wisdom, the help of the Holy Ghost and other vital blessings.
Brother Dahlquist encouraged the youth to dress modestly and find wholesome activities to enjoy during graduations and other upcoming celebrations. "I challenge you to look for positive options that will allow you to celebrate these wonderful days, and yet allow you to do so standing in holy places — being with good friends with similar standards, avoiding late hours and places that would tempt."
There is no better gathering place than one's own home, he said.
"I challenge you to live the standards set out by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve in the For the Strength of Youth brochure, to dress modestly, live lives of moral cleanliness, and to fill minds with good and positive and uplifting thoughts, poetry, scriptures and good music," he said.
It was an evening of counsel and music. Besides Brother Dahlquist's devotional message, the singing group Eclipse performed several numbers that emphasized the evening's gospel standards theme.
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