Russell M. Nelson said: “Now, please don’t be discouraged or depressed by your shortcomings. No one is without weakness. That is part of the divine plan—to determine if you will master that weakness, or let weakness master you. Proper diagnosis is essential to proper treatment. The Lord gave us this remarkable assurance: “Because thou has seen thy weakness, thou shalt be made strong” (Doctrine and Covenants 135:5). But wishing for strength won’t make it so. It takes faith and work to shore up a weakened cord of integrity.
That process of repair you know as repentance, and, mercifully, you don’t have to begin it alone. Help can be received through counsel with trusted parents and Church leaders. But their aid is more likely to be helpful if you seek it not merely to satisfy a formality but with “real intent” to reform yourself and come closer to Christ. He is the ultimate physician. Real faith in Him will provide real relief—and glorious rewards. He said, “Because thou hast seen thy weakness, thou shalt be made strong, even unto the sitting down in the place which I have prepared in the mansions of my Father” (Ether 12:37; see also 12:27; 2 Corinthians 12:9)
Mistakes may mar our worthiness intentions. And serious sin can stain with scarlet the slate of pristine white that was once ours. As none of us may escape sin, none of us may escape suffering. Repentance may not be easy, but it is worth it. Repentance not only bleaches, it heals! (“Integrity of Heart,” BYU Devotional, February 23,1993) And from “Teachings of Russell M. Nelson,” Deseret Book 2018, p.319-20).
