Dealing with Opposition (LDS Devotional)

LDS.org ^

[Reaganesque]

In my ward, today's Sunday School Lesson was lesson 32 "Live in the Spirit". At one point in the lesson, we discussed how we should handle those who criticize the church so, I thought it would be helpful to post that info here. We all need a reminder from time to time so, here it is:

Elder Marvin J. Ashton taught: “When others disagree with our stand we should not argue, retaliate in kind, or contend with them. … Ours is to explain our position through reason, friendly persuasion, and accurate facts. Ours is to stand firm and unyielding on the moral issues of the day and the eternal principles of the gospel, but to contend with no man or organization. Contention builds walls and puts up barriers. Love opens doors. … Contention never was and never will be an ally of progress”.

The lesson also references Acts 19:8-9:

8 And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.
9 But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

[Reaganesque]

At times it's hard to remember this lesson, particularly when some are so persistent in their opposition. As we know from scripture "for there must needs be opposition in all things". So, none of this should be any surprise to anyone, really. The opposition is not the important thing here though. Our reaction to it is and, as Elder Ashton said, "contention never was and never will be an ally of progress." If we want progress, we must focus on our message and not those who oppose it. And when "divers are hardened" and posters speak "evil of that way" there is nothing left to do but "depart" as did Paul. That's something I really needed to hear at this point. I hope that helps you too.

[Reaganesque]

LDS Ping!

[restornu]

We sure do need to hear it often!

Thank you.

[sevenbak]

Thanks. I’m needing that lesson right now dealing with MHGinTN.
I’ll try to breath through my nose for awhile.

[Tax-chick]

It looks like this is the same guidance you said your spiritual advisor was giving you.