Gramps,

Can I drink water or herb tea on Fast Sunday?

David

Answer

David,

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, fasting is a sacred and recurring practice designed to draw individuals closer to God. Observed typically on the first Sunday of each month—known as Fast Sunday—members are invited to abstain from food and drink, pray with greater intent, and offer a donation to help those in need. A common question arises, however: Does this include water? And what about herbal tea?

To answer that, it’s important to begin with what the Church actually teaches about fasting. Official Church materials consistently define fasting as going without both food and drink. The Church’s Gospel Topics explains that fasting is “voluntarily refraining from eating and drinking,” and members are asked to go without food and drink for about 24 hours if they are able. Similarly, the Church’s newsroom states that Latter-day Saints “abstain from food and drink for two meals” on Fast Sunday.

This wording is significant. It does not separate food from drink—it includes both. Historically, Church guidance has been even more explicit. An official Church publication once clarified that “a proper fast day observance consists of abstaining from food and drink,” and that “the use of water is excluded in this kind of a fast.” Based on this, the traditional LDS understanding of fasting includes abstaining from all liquids, including water.

Scripture reinforces this pattern. In Doctrine and Covenants 88:76, the Lord commands His people to “continue in fasting and prayer,” linking the physical act of fasting with spiritual devotion. Likewise, the Bible presents fasting as a complete offering of oneself to God. In Isaiah 58, the Lord teaches that a true fast is not just about abstaining but about changing the heart—feeding the hungry, caring for the afflicted, and drawing nearer to Him.

Church leaders have consistently emphasized that fasting is more than just going without food—it is a spiritual act tied closely to prayer. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin taught, “Without prayer, fasting is not complete fasting; it’s simply going hungry.” That insight helps clarify that the purpose of fasting is not deprivation for its own sake, but transformation—aligning our will with God’s.

So, where does that leave the question of water or herbal tea?

From a strictly traditional and doctrinal standpoint, the standard LDS fast includes abstaining from both food and drink, meaning neither water nor herbal tea would be part of a full fast. Herbal tea, even though it may not violate the Word of Wisdom, is still considered a beverage and would generally fall under the category of “drink.” Therefore, those who are able typically avoid it during their fast.

However—and this is crucial—LDS theology emphasizes wisdom, personal responsibility, and individual circumstances. The Church does not enforce fasting as a rigid, one-size-fits-all rule. In fact, official materials acknowledge that those who are not physically able to fast fully may adapt their observance. Members are counseled that if they cannot go without food and drink for 24 hours, they should decide what is appropriate for their situation.

This principle reflects a broader doctrinal truth: God values the intent of the heart more than strict outward performance. Fasting is meant to bless, not harm. For individuals who are pregnant, nursing, ill, elderly, or managing medical conditions, drinking water—or even modifying the fast more significantly—may be entirely appropriate. In such cases, choosing to drink water does not invalidate the fast; rather, it means the individual is honoring the principle in a safe and sincere way.

There is also an important spiritual balance to consider. Fasting is intended to deepen humility, increase dependence on God, and open the door to revelation. As one Church resource teaches, fasting “coupled with mighty prayer, is powerful” and can bring spiritual strength and guidance. That power comes not from technical perfection, but from genuine devotion.

In practical terms, many Latter-day Saints approach fasting with a simple framework:

• If they are able, they abstain from all food and drink, including water.
• If they are not able, they adjust thoughtfully while maintaining the spirit of the fast.

That spirit includes prayer, gratitude, repentance, and service. It also includes giving a fast offering to help those in need—an essential part of the law of the fast that reflects Isaiah’s teaching to “deal thy bread to the hungry.”

So, can you drink water or herbal tea on Fast Sunday?

The clearest doctrinal answer is this: the traditional standard is to abstain from both food and drink, including water and herbal tea. However, the higher principle is to fast in a way that is sincere, safe, and spiritually meaningful given your circumstances.

If you are healthy and able, a full fast without food or drink can be a powerful act of devotion. If you need to drink water or modify your fast, you can still fully participate in the blessings of fasting by focusing on prayer, humility, and service.

Ultimately, fasting in LDS theology is not about proving endurance—it is about drawing closer to God. And that purpose can be fulfilled in different ways for different people, all under the guidance of personal revelation.

That’s really the heart of it.

Gramps

Gramps,

Why is the Law of Chastity included as a separate law during the endowment, instead of as part of the Law of Obedience like other commandments? Of course, chastity is incredibly important, but I’ve always been confused by its singular emphasis in the endowment. Why not include other commandments as separate laws, such as no murder or no lying? What makes chastity different?

Justin

Answer

Justin,

The Law of Chastity holds a profound significance within the doctrines and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This sacred law, which advocates for sexual purity before marriage and fidelity within marriage, is not merely a guideline but a covenant made between individuals and God. Its inclusion as a separate law during the endowment ceremony highlights its foundational role in the spiritual journey of Church members.

The Law of Chastity, as defined by Church doctrine, entails complete abstinence from sexual relations before marriage and absolute fidelity after marriage. It emphasizes that sexual relations are a divine gift, intended to be shared exclusively between a husband and wife within the sanctity of marriage. This law is deeply rooted in the belief that sexuality is sacred and should be treated with respect and reverence.

According to Church leaders, including Elder David A. Bednar, the law is seen as a way to protect individuals from the emotional and spiritual consequences that often accompany sexual immorality. The teachings underscore that the ability to procreate is a sacred power, and engaging in sexual relations outside marriage undermines this divine purpose (source: Third Hour).

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland has emphasized that the body is an integral part of the soul and that sexual sin is a serious transgression that affects both the body and spirit. The endowment ceremony serves as a reminder of the sacred nature of sexual relations and the importance of maintaining purity as a covenant with God.

Moreover, the doctrine emphasizes that all sexual sins, regardless of their nature, can have profound effects on an individual’s spiritual standing. The Church teaches that the road to repentance includes recognizing the gravity of one’s actions and making a sincere effort to change (source: Ask Gramps).

To counteract these cultural pressures, Church members are encouraged to engage in open discussions about chastity, educate themselves about the importance of sexual purity, and seek support from their communities. Teaching children about the Law of Chastity candidly and respectfully is viewed as a crucial step in helping them navigate the challenges of modern society.

President Gordon B. Hinckley taught that individuals must take charge of their sexual impulses and strive to channel their energies into righteous pursuits. This principle of self-control is essential for maintaining purity and integrity in one’s life (source: Ask Gramps).

Gramps

Dear Gramps,

If God is all-knowing and all-powerful, how do we have free will? That seems to contradict itself. If he is all powerful and all knowing, then why would he be making/allowing people to live their life in a way that would derail them from the presence of God? Would he not want all his children to return home to him? I know the answer to that is, yes of course he does. And I understand we have agency and he wants us to learn how to  CHOOSE to follow him. How is that really our own?

Haylee

Answer

Haylee,

Well, looks like there are a few questions under the umbrella of “free will” in relation to our moral agency and God’s foreknowledge and power (omniscience and omnipotence). The answers to your questions revolve around and intertwine the following doctrines within the gospel of Jesus Christ:

1. Moral Agency
2. God’s Foreknowledge
3. God’s Work and Glory

In a devotional talk given by Elder Todd D. Christofferson he provided three elements necessary for us to have moral agency:

1. “First, there must be alternatives to choose among.”
2. “Second, for us to have agency, we must not only have alternatives but we must also know that they exist and what they are.”
3. “Third, after the existence of choices and a knowledge of choices, is the next element of agency: the freedom to make choices.”

Moral agency is the most important doctrine in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and in order for our agency (the ability to act for ourselves and not to be acted upon) to remain intact we must be able to choose between good and evil, vice and virtue, love and hate, and many more opposites. If our agency is limited by the power or love of God, then we no longer have moral agency. If we no longer have moral agency we can learn from the Book of Mormon that righteousness could not be brought to pass neither wickedness nor holiness. And if these things are not, then the plan of God would become frustrated (2 Nephi 2:11-16), and scripture tells us then there would be no God if moral agency did not exist.

Our moral agency does exist, and there is a loving, merciful, all powerful, and all knowing God — God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ — and they are one. As to your first question, how does free will exist if God knows all? The easy answer is simple, simply knowing an outcome doesn’t negate the possibility of the other outcome. An easy example can be provided from a mortal imperfect father who doesn’t know all things but knows enough about his child. As a young father, with a young son, I could easily tell which toy my son liked most. If I were to place his favorite toy in front of him, and placed another toy in front of him, does my knowledge of which toy he will choose destroy his free will or moral agency? No. My knowledge of his favorite toy doesn’t negate the opposition of the other toy and which he will choose. I simply only know, but do not determine his choice. His own desires and wants determine his choice. That should be sufficient for the first question.

Let’s review the second question, “If he is all powerful and all knowing, then why would he be making/allowing people to live their life in a way that would derail them from the presence of God?”

This is tough because no matter what explanation a person gives it can lead to more questions. This is the reality of having an imperfect knowledge; however, the answer that I can give is simply — love or charity. The reason why is because he loves us, and would do nothing that would inhibit our moral agency because he loves us. If God were to derail our moral agency, by any means, then he would have broken laws, eternal laws, which he will never do because he is perfect. This is why faith is so important also in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The exercising of our faith is how God can fully intervene in our life without destroying our moral agency.

This is why I love the following verses of scripture:

1. 1 Corinthians 10:13, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”

2. 2 Nephi 26:33, “For none of these iniquities come of the Lord; for he doeth that which is good among the children of men; and he doeth nothing save it be plain unto the children of men; and he inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile.”

The first verse of scripture let us know that God has provided a way through all temptation if we but heed his voice and commandments. The outcome of our eternal progression is solely and directly influenced by our love for God and his plan. Each of us has the opportunity to show God the measure of our hearts and what we value and treasure the most. If we treasure the Lord then we will find the path provided so that we are not tempted above what we can bear. If we treasure the world and its offerings, then we will find ourselves in harder situations, particularly the final judgement.

The second verse just wraps up what I originally said about love. The reason is because he loves us, and he would never do anything save it be for our benefit. Our imperfect knowledge doesn’t change this. As we grow in more knowledge, as we accept more light and truth (the glory of God), what was once confusing will be made clearer and clearer.

If you are unfamiliar with the story told of Enoch and the Lord in the Pearl of Great Price I would recommend reading it slowly, carefully, and with a desire to learn. The same desire that Nephi had when he desired to know more about the visions of his father Lehi. At one point in Moses chapter 7, Enoch sees the Lord weeping and asks the Lord the following question:

“And Enoch said unto the Lord: How is it that thou canst weep, seeing thou art holy, and from all eternity to all eternity?”

I find it very interesting, that at some point the knowledge was lost (or not given yet) that God had the ability to cry and to weep. Enoch conflated Holiness with having no tears. But his question to some degree answers your question with the Lord’s answer:

“The Lord said unto Enoch: Behold these thy brethren; they are the workmanship of mine own hands, and I gave unto them their knowledge, in the day I created them; and in the Garden of Eden, gave I unto man his agency;

“And unto thy brethren have I said, and also given commandment, that they should love one another, and that they should choose me, their Father; but behold, they are without affection, and they hate their own blood;”

That despite the knowledge he provided our forefathers. That despite the wisdom they had received from the Lord and his servants the children of men still chose to hate and to war rather than love one another and to “choose” him, their Father. Can we really blame God for a glorious plan where we have the moral agency to choose and we choose evil despite knowing the good? No, we can’t! And one day, everyone who lived upon this earth will humbly bow and proclaim as Nephi said, “Thy ways are just.”

Gramps

Dear Gramps,

President Thomas S. Monson teaches that it is easier to obey commandments 100 percent of the time than 98 percent of the time.  I seem only to be able to manage no better than 50/50. Are you Gramps able to obey commandments 100 percent of the time? If not, why not if it is an easy thing to do? Do you expect that in your lifetime that you will be able to obey 100 percent of the time?  What percent obedience do I need to have for eternal salvation?

DF

Answer

Dear DF,

I think you may be misunderstanding the percentages used in the story President Monson shared. I’ll include a rather lengthy quote here so other readers can follow along.

In closing may I share with you an example of one who determined early in life what his goals would be. I speak of Brother Clayton M. Christensen, a member of the Church who is a professor of business administration in the business school at Harvard University.

 

When he was 16 years old, Brother Christensen decided, among other things, that he would not play sports on Sunday. Years later, when he attended Oxford University in England, he played center on the basketball team. That year they had an undefeated season and went through to the British equivalent of what in the United States would be the NCAA basketball tournament.

 

They won their games fairly easily in the tournament, making it to the final four. It was then that Brother Christensen looked at the schedule and, to his absolute horror, saw that the final basketball game was scheduled to be played on a Sunday. He and the team had worked so hard to get where they were, and he was the starting center. He went to his coach with his dilemma. His coach was unsympathetic and told Brother Christensen he expected him to play in the game.

 

Prior to the final game, however, there was a semifinal game. Unfortunately, the backup center dislocated his shoulder, which increased the pressure on Brother Christensen to play in the final game. He went to his hotel room. He knelt down. He asked his Heavenly Father if it would be all right, just this once, if he played that game on Sunday. He said that before he had finished praying, he received the answer: “Clayton, what are you even asking me for? You know the answer.”

 

He went to his coach, telling him how sorry he was that he wouldn’t be playing in the final game. Then he went to the Sunday meetings in the local ward while his team played without him. He prayed mightily for their success. They did win.

 

That fateful, difficult decision was made more than 30 years ago. Brother Christensen has said that as time has passed, he considers it one of the most important decisions he ever made. It would have been very easy to have said, “You know, in general, keeping the Sabbath day holy is the right commandment, but in my particular extenuating circumstance, it’s okay, just this once, if I don’t do it.” However, he says his entire life has turned out to be an unending stream of extenuating circumstances, and had he crossed the line just that once, then the next time something came up that was so demanding and critical, it would have been so much easier to cross the line again. The lesson he learned is that it is easier to keep the commandments 100 percent of the time than it is 98 percent of the time. (The Three R’s of Choice).

The percentage Brother Christensen measures is obedience to one law or principle, not all laws and principles. He chose 100% obedience to the principle of “no recreational sports on the Lord’s day”. Had he chosen to carve out exceptions he reports that his 98% obedience would really fall into a much smaller percentage because (knowing himself) he would put more in the “exception” bucket than he really should. This in turn can be extended to other standards of gospel living. If a person chooses to abstain from tea, that person will find it easier to abstain 100%. If she carves out an exception to drink sweet tea with non-member family (98% abstinence), she will soon find herself considering if that includes purchasing it for when they come to visit, whether her children are included in the prohibition or exemption, what to do when some is gifted to her, what about close friends that she loves like family, and so on down the line. If she spends too much time and effort wrestling with these questions, she will find that 98% is slipping to a smaller percentage and she is qualified for a law degree. Her life would be much simpler if she avoided appeasement and instead stood with her standards. Observant readers may notice that this is a variation to the “slippery slope” argument. Although that is a fallacy in logical debate, it is a truism for human nature. Rather than take my word for this, you can ask teenagers and young adults what happens when they start carving out exceptions to morality standards and the law of chastity. The natural man, like water, follows the path of least resistance flowing ever downhill to a lower state.

In this light, there are a great many commandments that I suspect you are already living. Even if these are struggles for you, I’m certain you know individuals who practice 100% obedience to one or more of these standards:

• abstaining from substances prohibited in the Word of Wisdom
• full tithing every year
• strict abstinence before marriage and absolute fidelity after
• monthly fasting
• church attendance
• modesty in dress and manner

Gramps

Hey Gramps team! I love your work. You’re the best.

I’m considering dabbling into investing. And I’m tempted to find a marijuana company to focus on. I think it’s only a matter of time before recreational marijuana will be tolerated in the nation and earn a spot in the stock exchange as federal laws loosen. It *could*be lucrative.  I’ve heard of other members investing in alcohol as well. What do you think about this? Would I be going against church doctrine?

Christopher

Answer

Hello Christopher,

Thank you for your question.

Without fail, throughout our lives, we will repeatedly be presented with scenarios of, “Should I do X or should I do Y?” While it might be nice to always have a black and white, clearly defined answer to every possible question, that is simply not the design or pattern by which our Father in Heaven intends for us to grow.

For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.  D&C 58:26

Rather he provides us with righteous principles so that we may judge for ourselves where the correct path lies .

I have always enjoyed the following experience of Joseph Smith as found in Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith :

John Taylor, the third President of the Church, reported: “Some years ago, in Nauvoo, a gentleman in my hearing, a member of the Legislature, asked Joseph Smith how it was that he was enabled to govern so many people, and to preserve such perfect order; remarking at the same time that it was impossible for them to do it anywhere else. Mr. Smith remarked that it was very easy to do that. ‘How?’ responded the gentleman; ‘to us it is very difficult.’ Mr. Smith replied, ‘I teach them correct principles, and they govern themselves.’”

As members of the Church, we are given correct principles to live by. With these correct principles we should be able to decide for ourselves, with confirmation from the Holy Ghost, which path we should follow. Rather than simply give you a direct answer to your question, perhaps it is better to offer up a series of questions by which you can come to your own conclusion. For the moment, feel free to substitute any commodity or service you wish into your specific question, “Should I invest in ______________?”

Should I invest in pickles?
Should I invest in playground equipment?
Should I invest in pornography – since it is both legal and lucrative?
If I lived in a country where it was legal, would I invest in a butterfly farm, oil pipeline or perhaps organized voluntary prostitution?

Some of the questions that you may consider asking yourself, given that as members of Church we have been given the chance to learn correct principles:

1. Is what I hope to invest in going to draw me closer or further from the Lord?
2. Is what I hope to invest in bringing me peace or confusion/doubt/hesitation?
3. Do I feel like I’m being lead to this choice by the Spirit or tempted instead?
4. Does my choice in investment align with the 13th Article of Faith where it states:

If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

5. Would I feel uneasy trying to explain my choice in investment before the Lord?
6. Would I feel worthy to sign my own temple recommend?
7. Would I be proud to share my investment portfolio with my spouse/family/children/Bishop?
etc.

As you go through the questions above, I promise you that you will know which path to take, even if it is not the answer you may have been looking for.  While there may be many things that are: legal, lucrative and done by others (even members of the Church), those are not the litmus test the Lord uses.

I leave with you one final thought found in the Book of Mormon. It comes from Mormon 3:20, where it states:

20 And these things doth the Spirit manifest unto me; therefore I write unto you all. And for this cause I write unto you, that ye may know that ye must all stand before the judgment-seat of Christ, yea, every soul who belongs to the whole human family of Adam; and ye must stand to be judged of your works, whether they be good or evil;

Good luck Christopher is figuring out for yourself what path you should take.

Gramps

Gramps,

If i prayed to become taller, and I was keeping my covenants and doing my part of being obedient to his commandments, If i tried hard enough by training and exercising would God make me taller if I did my part?

Tony

Answer

Tony,

In our scriptures, we have the following verses of scripture to help us understand the purpose of prayer, and which hopefully will help you increase in wisdom pertaining to our personal prayers:

Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth.  Mormon 9:21

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: Matthew 7:7

Do ye not remember the things which the Lord hath said?—If ye will not harden your hearts, and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you. 1 Nephi 15:11

But ye are commanded in all things to ask of God, who giveth liberally;  D&C 46:7

And the Lord said unto me: John, my beloved, what desirest thou? For if you shall ask what you will, it shall be granted unto you.  D&C 7:1

In light of your question, would it be wrong to ask God the Father to be taller (assuming I am keeping all the commandments and being obedient)? I personally feel we can approach our Heavenly Father for anything; although, when we ask please take these verses of scripture and quote into account also:

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: (emphasis mine) 1 John 5:14

Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ask not amiss; (emphasis mine)  2 Nephi 4:35

And it shall come to pass that he that asketh in Spirit shall receive in Spirit…

 

He that asketh in the Spirit asketh according to the will of God; wherefore it is done even as he asketh. (emphasis mine)  D&C 46:28,30

“As soon as we learn the true relationship in which we stand toward God (namely, God is our Father, and we are His children), then at once prayer becomes natural and instinctive on our part (Matt. 7:7–11). Many of the so-called difficulties about prayer arise from forgetting this relationship. Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with each other. The object of prayer is not to change the will of God but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant but that are made conditional on our asking for them.Blessings require some work or effort on our part before we can obtain them. Prayer is a form of work and is an appointed means for obtaining the highest of all blessings.” (emphasis mine)  Bible Dictionary

Tony, asking Heavenly Father to be taller isn’t wrong, what you have to determine is if this would be proper for you to ask, or if you were to really soul search do you think this is the “will of God” for Tony? It doesn’t hurt to ask, but should you ask, remember even if you are shorter (like myself) it is OK. Our height will not remove spiritual blessings from us :). Now, if you happen to play basketball or volleyball, it would be nice at times if these prayers were answered, but the chances are probably slim. Also keep in mind that genetics have a significant play in how tall you will be at adulthood as well.

Gramps

Gramps,

I have made covenants in the temple. But I am unworthy to attend, because I stopped tithing. I have failed in many ways. Such as not studying and understanding scripture and as a result not passing that on to my children. The reason I stopped tithing is due to bad financial decisions that hurt my daughter more than helped. What is the worst that can happen to me as a result of all this?

Christine

Answer

Christine,

I feel your sorrow and regret over your past decisions.  May the Lord comfort you.

Life has a way of creeping up on us.  And many times, we have to be brought to our knees both figuratively and literally before we realize some of the choices we’ve made have taken us further from the Lord rather than closer.  But the gospel of Jesus Christ is not for perfect people.  It is for people like you and me who make mistakes and find a way to move on in the Lord’s way, so that one day, we may be made perfect in Him.

The first thing to do is stop asking “What is the worst that can happen?”  Instead, have faith in Christ.  Call upon the power of the Atonement to make a difference in your life.  Whatever your decisions and actions of the past, you may receive forgiveness and find a path to happiness.

Then start talking with your bishop about getting help to straighten things out in your life.  I see that you’ve mentioned several trials that you’re subject to at the moment.  Ask for advice or names of people who can offer the sound advice you need to get through those trials.

Make a decision now to be the person your Heavenly Father wants you to be.  It is a life-long journey we’re on.  Don’t expect to achieve your goals in a single day or week or even one year.  But as you renew your covenants and continue to do so, the Lord will strengthen you in your afflictions.  Notice that I did not say he would take all the trials away.  That’s not usually how the Lord operates.  He usually strengthens you to withstand the trials you have.  The strength you receive is going to be equal to the faith you have in His power to do so.

All my prayers go with you.  May the Lord take you by the hand.

Gramps

Dear Gramps,

Why do Mormons eat pork when they believe in the Old Testament which forbids it?

Jessica

Answer

Dear Jessica,

The proscription against eating pork was part of the law of Moses, and it was in force for all the house of Israel until it was nullified by the Savior during his mortal sojourn. When He appeared to the Nephites on the American continent following his resurrection, He explained the fulfilling of the law of Moses as follows—

And now it came to pass that when Jesus had ended these sayings he cast his eyes round about on the multitude, and said unto them: Behold, ye have heard the things which I taught before I ascended to my Father; therefore, whoso remembereth these sayings of mine and doeth them, him will I raise up at the last day.

 

And it came to pass that when Jesus had said these words he perceived that there were some among them who marveled, and wondered what he would concerning the law of Moses; for they understood not the saying that old things had passed away, and that all things had become new.

 

And he said unto them: Marvel not that I said unto you that old things had passed away, and that all things had become new.

 

Behold, I say unto you that the law is fulfilled that was given unto Moses. Behold, I am he that gave the law, and I am he who covenanted with my people Israel; therefore, the law in me is fulfilled, for I have come to fulfil the law; therefore it hath an end.

 

Behold, I do not destroy the prophets, for as many as have not been fulfilled in me, verily I say unto you, shall all be fulfilled.

 

And because I said unto you that old things have passed away, I do not destroy that which hath been spoken concerning things which are to come.

 

For behold, the covenant which I have made with my people is not all fulfilled; but the law which was given unto Moses hath an end in me.

 

Behold, I am the law, and the light. Look unto me, and endure to the end, and ye shall live; for unto him that endureth to the end will I give eternal life (3 Ne 15:1-9).

Gramps

Dear Gramps,

How does one truly obtain a pure heart? I am unwillingly being made to go through a divorce right now, and the physical desires and the temptations that accompany them leave me confused and frustrated. To what degree does the Lord hold me accountable for the things that enter into my heart? Sometimes I lose the spirit despite casting these things out of my mind over and over again. Often it leaves me feeling dejected and discouraged. I want to continue to be pure before the Lord. Do you have any suggestions?

Struggling

Answer

Dear Struggling,

We are living in a world of gross sin. The scriptures tell us that this earth is the most wicked world in the universe (Moses 7:36). Therefore, we cannot avoid being impacted by the impurity of the world. But there is a difference between seeing and looking, between hearing and listening, between tasting and savoring, between touching and feeling. The first of these pairs of sensory descriptions is external. We would have to be deaf and blind not to hear and see what goes on in the environment around us. But how and to what we look and listen is at our own command. For the first description we are not responsible, for the second description we ARE responsible. A pure heart relates not to the environment we are in, but to how we interpret that environment. A person with a pure heart may of feel sorrow, disgust and revulsion, whereas a person of the world would be titillated by an unwholesome environment.

Now being frustrated is one thing, but being confused is another. A person with a pure heart may often be frustrated at how to handle a difficult situation or how to extricate one’s self from an unwholesome environment, but there should be no confusion about what is right and what is wrong. That understanding of the difference between right and wrong is a free gift given by the Savior to every individual. Only those who grossly abuse it, lose it.

Now a person with a pure heart is certainly not free from temptation, because we live in a world of temptation. The adversary is among us! The scriptures state that—

For all flesh is corrupted before me; and the powers of darkness prevail upon the earth, among the children of men, in the presence of all the hosts of heaven–

 

Which causeth silence to reign, and all eternity is pained, and the angels are waiting the great command to reap down the earth, to gather the tares that they may be burned; and, behold, the enemy is combined (D&C 38:11-12).

However, the key is how we respond to that wicked environment. Here is an example:

The father of a young family was out of work and destitute and the family was nearly starving. As he left home early in the morning to search for work he saw on the steps of a nearby house two bottles of milk that had been left by the milkman. He thought, “My family is starving, and that family has more than enough. In order to save my family, I’ll just take those two quarts of milk. They will never really miss it.” And so he takes the milk home to feed his family. That man is a thief. Another man comes along in the same situation, sees the milk on the porch and goes through the same rationalization as the first man, but says to himself, “I’d better not steal that milk because if I do I might get caught.” That man is also a thief–prevented from committing the theft only by the fear of getting caught. A third man in the same condition is confronted by the same situation. As he sees the milk he is also tempted to steal it in order to feed his family. But he finally concludes, “That’s dishonest, I could never do a thing like that.” That man, although sorely tempted, overcame the temptation and maintained his integrity. He is to be honored for his righteousness. A four man comes by, again in the same condition. As he sees the milk on the porch the thought of stealing it never enters into his mind. That man has a pure heart.

So what does one do to rise above temptation? First, in order to be influenced by the Holy Spirit we must be in compliance with all the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Secondly, we must avoid what temptation we can avoid. This may best be done by associating as much as possible with pure people, e.g., those who are struggling to be pure. In other words, seek the association and companionship of the faithful members of your Ward and other faithful Latter-day Saints. Also, if you are an endowed member of the Mormon Church, go to the temple frequently. There you will be fed by the Spirit and strengthened in the cause of righteousness. Let me also suggest two pieces of literature that would be strengthening to you. The message from the First Presidency of the Mormon Church in the January 2007 issue of the Ensign magazine is written by President James E. Faust, entitled, “The Forces That Will Save Us.” Among other things in that article he tells us “[Satan] is really a coward, and if we stand firm, he will retreat.” He also quotes Nephi as saying that the devil “hath no power over the hearts of righteous people.” (1 Nephi 22:26)

I would also commend to you the second lesson in the new class manual for the Melchizedek Priesthood, Teachings of the Presidents of the Church, Spencer W. Kimball, entitled “Destiny or Tragedy?”

Gramps

Dear Gramps:

What I was thinking about is what is the relation in God knowing everything and our agency?  If we have the right to choose and he does know every choice we will be making. So if he knows all that, then he knows where each of us will go in the judgment. (Telestial, Terrestrial, Celestial). I am on a mission in Argentina and I am asking my Grandfather to ask you this question. I did not know where to lead my investigator in the scriptures about it. Please help. Thanks

Jonnie

Answer

And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them;

 

And they who keep their first estate shall be added upon; and they who keep not their first estate shall not have glory in the same kingdom with those who keep their first estate; an they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever.  Abraham 3:25-26

However, agency isn’t just important to see what we’ll choose, it’s important because of the growth and experiences we achieve through those choices.  As we make good choices and follow His commandments, we become strengthened in our agency and grow through even better choices.  Only in this way can we grow to be like Him.

Gramps

Gramps,

The past four years I have struggled with attending all of my church meetings. I have always reasoned that the sacrament is the primary purpose of attending church and the other meetings are secondary in importance. The three-hour block seems like a waste of time especially when Sunday is the only day people have to spend time with their family. I also don’t enjoy attending church because I always find myself alone.  Why is attending all of our meetings a requirement to enter the temple?

Logan

Answer

Logan,

You are correct that sacrament meeting is the most important part of Sunday obligations.  Elder Dallin H Oaks, current counselor in the presidency, has said that, “The ordinance of the sacrament makes the sacrament meeting the most sacred and important meeting in the Church.” (Sacrament Meeting and the Sacrament) So you are right about that.

While it’s true, the Lord made Sunday as a day of rest, He also designated that day as a day to worship Him. Our primary obligation (even before family to some degree) is to worship and obey the word of God. Therefore, sacrament attendance is very important and that should be your priority. Just because it’s a priority and an obligation doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. In fact, President Uchtdorf, while speaking at a general conference, made a tongue in cheek comment about it. When an investigating couple asked how long church services were, a member replied “Three hours every Sunday!” They responded, “Oh my! Do members of your church actually do that?” The man said, “And we haven’t even mentioned family history, youth camps, devotionals, scripture study, leadership training, youth activities, early-morning seminary, maintaining Church buildings, and of course there is the Lord’s law of health, the monthly fast to help the poor, and tithing.” (Come, Join with Us) That story always makes me chuckle. It can at times seem that Sunday services are exhausting, but they are not a waste of time and it’s good to have a sense of humor about it.

The temple is a wonderful place. In fact, all of us should strive to have an active temple recommend and go to the temple frequently . The prophets and leaders of the church have told us the requirements to enter the temple, and they have included attending three hours of our meetings every Sunday in order to attend the temple. Therefore, there is no way of getting around it.  The prophets have placed great importance on attending all three hours of church. They have taught us that going to church is a demonstration of our commitment and love for the Savior and his sacrifice on our behalf. When we consider that we have 165 hrs a week to engage in our own pursuits, surely we can commit ourselves to 3 hrs in Sunday worship.

I want to tell you that I admire you. I know of many, many people who also struggle with church attendance but instead of attending church at all, even for sacrament meeting-they just don’t show up. That you are struggling with this issue but still do your best to show speaks highly of your character.  I also noticed that you said you are often alone in the ward. That, Logan, breaks my heart. It brought back many times in my life where I ate lunch in a cafeteria alone, or attended a business function alone. It can make an awkward situation worse because you feel very self conscious. That no one at church is reaching out to you or sitting near you deeply troubles me. Perhaps attending more often might enable you to create relationships in the church and then it would be easier to find people to sit closer to you.  I have found that taking the initiative to befriend others and sit next to them has helped brighten their day as well as my own. You may not be the only one desiring to have a friend at church, perhaps a proactive approach may change that. If you attend church and still find yourself to be viewed as an outsider-then speaking to your priesthood leaders and/or the bishop would be a wise choice.

Bonnie L. Oscarson gave a talk where she said:

Another area of focus for our service can be in our ward families. Occasionally our children would ask us the question, “Why do I have to go to Mutual? I just don’t get very much out of it.”

 

If I was having a good parenting moment, I would reply, “What makes you think you go to Mutual because of what you get out of it?”

 

My young friends, I can guarantee that there will always be someone at every Church meeting you attend who is lonely, who is going through challenges and needs a friend, or who feels like he or she doesn’t belong. You have something important to contribute to every meeting or activity, and the Lord desires for you to look around at your peers and then minister as He would.

 

Elder D. Todd Christofferson has taught, “A major reason the Lord has a church is to create a community of Saints that will sustain one another in the ‘strait and narrow path which leads to eternal life.’” He goes on to say, “This religion is not concerned only with self; rather, we are all called to serve. We are the eyes, hands, head, feet, and other members of the body of Christ.”

 

It is true that we attend our weekly Church meetings to participate in ordinances, learn doctrine, and be inspired, but another very important reason for attending is that, as a ward family and as disciples of the Savior Jesus Christ, we watch out for one another, encourage one another, and find ways to serve and strengthen each other. We are not just receivers and takers of what is offered at church; we are needed to be givers and suppliers. Young women and young men, next time you are at Mutual, instead of picking up your phone to see what your friends are doing, stop, look around, and ask yourself, “Who needs me today?” You may be the key to reaching out and touching the life of a peer or to giving encouragement to a friend who is quietly struggling.

 

Ask your Heavenly Father to show you those around you who need your help and to inspire you on how to best serve them. Remember that the Savior most often ministered to one person at a time.

 

…

Pray for help in recognizing those in your ward families who need love and encouragement. Instead of attending church with the question of “What am I going to get out of this meeting?” ask, “Who needs me today? What do I have to contribute?”

I’m praying for you Logan.

Gramps

Gramps,

Answer

Hi Roger,

Commandments are divine instructions given by God, intended for the benefit of His children. They represent the fundamental principles that guide individuals toward a righteous life. In the context of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commandments serve as spiritual guidelines that lead to blessings, guiding adherents in their relationship with God and with others. According to the Church’s teachings, obedience to commandments is not merely a matter of following rules; it is a demonstration of love for God and a pathway to spiritual growth.

In contrast, laws encompass a broader scope that includes commandments but also extends to specific regulations that govern behavior in society. Laws can be categorized into moral laws, such as the Ten Commandments, and civil laws, which are designed to maintain order within communities. Within the teachings of The Church, laws often illustrate the application of commandments, providing a structured framework for how individuals should conduct themselves in various aspects of life.

The primary purpose of commandments is to foster a deeper relationship between God and His children. They are designed to encourage spiritual growth, helping individuals align their lives with divine principles. Commandments guide followers toward actions that reflect love, compassion, and righteousness. In contrast, laws serve a dual purpose: they not only illustrate the commandments but also establish a framework for societal interactions and governance.

Commandments are typically viewed as higher moral principles that encapsulate the essence of righteous behavior. For example, the commandment “Thou shalt love thy neighbor” emphasizes the importance of love and compassion in personal interactions. On the other hand, laws provide specific examples and guidelines that elaborate on these principles, such as laws governing social conduct and justice within communities.

The Ten Commandments, as outlined in the scriptures, serve as foundational commandments that encapsulate broader moral laws. They are considered essential principles that govern both personal conduct and community relationships. These commandments highlight key aspects of moral behavior, such as honoring parents, refraining from murder, and avoiding theft.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, a prominent leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasized the integral relationship between love and law. He taught that God’s love does not negate His laws; rather, obedience to commandments is an expression of love for God. This balance between love and law is crucial for understanding the nature of God and the purpose of His commandments, as both are intended to promote true freedom and righteousness.

The relationship between commandments and laws is rooted in eternal principles. For instance, scriptural doctrines indicate that blessings from God are contingent upon obedience to His commandments (Doctrine and Covenants 130:20-21). This understanding reinforces the idea that laws are not arbitrary but are designed to guide individuals toward a fulfilling and righteous life in accordance with divine will.

Adhering to both commandments and laws is vital for spiritual development. Obedience is not merely about following rules; it is an expression of love and commitment to God. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are encouraged to view commandments as opportunities for growth, fostering a deeper connection with their faith and with God.

The principles surrounding commandments and laws can be effectively applied in parenting. Just as God’s commandments lead to blessings, wise parental guidance that incorporates these principles can create a loving and disciplined environment for children. Parents who teach their children the importance of commandments and laws equip them to navigate the complexities of life with integrity and moral clarity.

In summary, while commandments and laws are interconnected concepts within the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it is crucial to recognize their distinct roles. Commandments reflect God’s love and intentions for His children, while laws provide specific frameworks for living out those commandments in daily life. Understanding the differences between commandments and laws not only strengthens individual faith but also enhances the ability to live a Christ-centered life. As followers of Christ, embracing these principles can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of divine guidance.

Gramps