Sincere love has the potential to exercise power far beyond our limited understanding of love. Principle 17
From Elder Richard G. Scott (deceased) and his book 21 Principles, Divine Truths to Help You Live by the Spirit. . . .
I am convinced that when we give unconditional love; when our interest is first in building, edifying, strengthening without thought of self; when we do not expect an automatic return for each act of kindness, generosity or sincere effort to help; when we are not concerned about what we will receive and what others will say or whether our burdens will be diminished, but selflessly seek to build another, the miracle of the power of the gospel is released in our lives. When we permit the Lord to work through us to bless others that sacred experience releases power in our own lives and miracles occur. Well did the master say, “For inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these, ye do it unto me.” (Doctrine & Covenants 42:38) Respect and love must be earned, and there is no better way to earn them than to learn them than to lift another. Begin now with your best effort. Reach out to another. You will feel the power of the Lord flow through you. Your self-respect will return, and you can love yourself again. Your life will be enriched and given purpose and you will be given power to make a difference in everything around you.
Pure love is an incomparable, potent power for good. Righteous love is the foundation for a successful marriage. It is the primary cause of contented, well-developed children. It is the source of complete unity within a presidency, a quorum or family where decisions are made unanimously. Where that unity comes willingly from a foundation of pure love and an eye single to the glory of God, vision, capacity, and achievement are expanded by the power of God.
Love is a potent leader. Realizing that, Satan would separate you from the power of the love of God, kindred, and friends who want to help. He would lead you to feel that the walls are pressing in around you and there is no escape or relief. He wants you to believe that you lack capacity to help yourself and that no one else is really interested. If he succeeds, you will be driven to further despair and heartache. His strategy is to have you think you are not appreciated, loved or wanted so that you in despair will turn to self-criticism and, in the extreme to even despising and feeling evil when you are not. Remember the wisdom of the Lord “is greater than the cunning of the devil “(Doctrine & Covenants 10:43) If you have such thoughts, break through those helpless feelings by reaching out to another in need. That may sound cruel and unfeeling when you long so much for healing, but it is based upon truth. Paul taught. “Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2)
~~Elder Richard G. Scott, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. . .(deceased), from his book; “21 Principles, Divine Truths to Help You Live by the Spirit” Deseret Book, Salt Lake City. For the first post of this series, click Divine Truths to Live By. . . .
