Stand Up, Speak Up, and Shine

LDS.org Blog by Joy D. Jones, Primary General President |June 21, 2018

I usually look forward to speaking about the gospel of Jesus Christ, especially to those who are genuinely asking out of curiosity or interest.  Defending my faith is something I feel is important to do and in the years of practice, I have learned that sometimes our actions speak louder than words.

In my role as the President of the Church’s worldwide children’s organization, I love visiting with the women of the Church. I can honestly say that, wherever I go, I meet unwavering women who are willing to stand for truth and righteousness—they shine. The women I meet tell me stories of their challenges and trials. Yet these wonderful daughters of God continue to “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ” (2 Nephi 31:20).

It may be that in our daily lives, some of us are seldom asked to stand—literally or figuratively—to defend the gospel of Jesus Christ and His kingdom here on earth. On the other hand, some of us may be required to speak up on a regular basis to defend truth: perhaps at school, at work, with friends, or even with family. Sisters, I promise you that whether it’s in the boardroom or the bakery, at some point, as a disciple of Christ, you will be called upon to articulate what you know and believe.

So how will you react when a situation presents itself to speak up for Jesus Christ and His Church? Will you freeze? Will you avoid confrontation? As you may have experienced, the third and better alternative, standing as a witness, may be uncomfortable at first as well, but as President M. Russell Ballard once said, “it is always the right thing to do. Always.” Freezing and running from the opportunity to do what Jesus would do often results in regret, not only for ourselves but also for those who might have benefited from our words. Sometimes compromise represents a far greater risk than courage. As difficult as it is to stand for truth, it is much harder to live with the consequences of moral failure.

It might help to remember the wisdom of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: “You will one day find yourself called upon to defend your faith or perhaps even endure some personal abuse simply because you are a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Such moments will require both courage and courtesy on your part.”

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