Over General Conference weekend, President Henry B. Eyring’s address touched my heart as I listened to his voice testify of the goodness of God. His tender and heartfelt message began by reiterating President Nelson’s plea, which he gave upon becoming President of the Church in 2018: “In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.”
President Eyring stated that his address was essentially a letter to his descendants, echoing the need for the constant influence of the Holy Ghost in their future lives. He encouraged us to reflect on the example of the sons of Helaman, Lehi, and Nephi, who sought and taught by the Holy Ghost in their efforts to share the message of the Savior Jesus Christ.
Drawing from nine decades of experience, President Eyring stressed the importance of relying on the Lord when facing overwhelming challenges. Again, he urged us to seek to be led by the Spirit in every moment.
When we inevitably fall short and feel distant from God and the Spirit, President Eyring reminded us to reflect on our lives, correct any wrongdoings that prevent us from feeling the love of God, and find solace in partaking of the sacrament.
In addition to this, President Eyring said, “If you have felt the influence of the Holy Ghost today, you may take it as a sweet evidence that the Atonement is working in your life.” For individuals who feel as though they have messed up too much, or who feel as though they have fallen too far from the grace of God, this line provides immediate comfort.
The Holy Ghost provides comfort and testifies that Jesus is the Christ. President Eyring emphasized that if we were willing to serve the Lord, He would work through us through the Spirit’s presence.
President Eyring bore testimony of God’s existence and His awareness of us, stressing the significance of the Restoration and recognizing President Nelson as the prophet.
He reminded us that each of us had the opportunity to receive the Holy Ghost to gain knowledge of these truths.
In his last words, President Eyring concluded his message with the heartfelt declaration: “I love you.” This simple statement touches the heart as you feel the truthfulness of the principles he shared.
Written by: Adam Blake
Contributor at the Cougar Chronicle
The Cougar Chronicle is an independent student-run newspaper and is not affiliated with Brigham Young University or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.