Summary
Highlights
President Dallin H. Oaks and his wife, Sister Kristen Oaks, are welcomed to BYU for a special devotional. The speaker highlights the significance of hearing from a prophet of God and introduces President Oaks's background as a former BYU president, lawyer, and justice of the Utah Supreme Court. He also acknowledges other esteemed guests and the performers for the musical numbers.
Katy Ward, President Oaks's great-granddaughter, offers an invocation, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to hear from the prophet and praying for guidance and understanding. The BYU Concert Choir and an instrumental ensemble perform a stirring rendition of "All Creatures of Our God and King" under the direction of Brant Wells, setting a reverent tone for the devotional.
President Oaks expresses his love for the audience and his prayer for inspiration. He reflects on his history with BYU, including serving as president during its 100th anniversary and witnessing President Spencer W. Kimball's 'Second Century Address.' He reaffirms his belief in BYU's destiny to become 'the great university of the Lord,' not in the world's way, but in the Lord's way.
President Oaks discusses the concept of the 'mantle of the office,' citing Elijah and Elisha, and the succession of leadership after Joseph Smith. He shares his personal experience with the mantle settling on President Russell M. Nelson and then on himself upon assuming his current calling, describing the profound sense of responsibility and magnified prophetic gifts. He emphasizes the critical need for the Holy Ghost to navigate spiritual challenges in a world full of deception and distractions, quoting President Nelson's warning.
President Oaks outlines four impressions to draw closer to the Savior: 1) Strengthen faith in God and Jesus Christ through daily prayer and scripture study. 2) Increase humility, which helps in overcoming doubts about doctrine. He shares a personal anecdote about a student's comment that taught him humility and refers to President Ezra Taft Benson's teachings on humility as the antidote to pride. 3) Seek help from other believers, engaging in discussions with faithful friends and church members, and taking concerns to the Lord rather than being swayed by false information from social media. 4) Be patient, holding onto faith even when understanding is incomplete, and trusting in God's timing.
President Oaks warns about the dangers of diminishing faith and activity, urging members to keep their covenants. He discusses the two methods of gaining knowledge: scientific discovery and spiritual truth through faith and revelation. He asserts that there is no ultimate conflict between these methods and advises patience and humility when faced with seeming discrepancies, quoting Elder Richard L. Evans. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of partaking in the sacrament weekly, attending the temple, and engaging in service to others.
President Oaks bears a powerful testimony of Jesus Christ, the truths taught by the restored church, and the words he has shared. Brother Kim Clark offers the benediction, expressing gratitude for President Oaks's message and praying for blessings upon him and Sister Oaks in their calling. He asks that all who hear President Oaks's words will hear God's voice through them.