This post is part of the General Conference Odyssey. This week covers the Sunday morning session of the October 2008 conference.
Frequently I listen to my husband and oldest son describe an antagonistic or argumentative exchange they've participated in online. I don't understand why they engage in such, but they are adults and get to choose for themselves. I refuse to argue with anyone online. It is unproductive and dismisses the Spirit faster than you can say, "You're wrong!"
Christians in general, and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in particular, are often under attack for our beliefs, values, and morals. Satan doesn't want us to believe or act on our beliefs so he influences his followers to attack and accuse us of anything and everything.
Elder Robert D. Hales spoke of having Christian courage to follow the Savior's example. "But when we respond to our accusers as the Savior did, we not only become more Christlike, we invite others to feel His love and follow Him as well. . . . When we do not retaliate--when we turn the other cheek and resist feelings of anger--we too stand with the Savior. We show forth His love, which is the only power that can subdue the adversary and answer our accusers without accusing them in return. That is not weakness. That is Christian courage."
I so enjoy Elder Hales' soft spoken delivery. He epitomizes his statement, "True disciples speak with quiet confidence, not boastful pride."
There is enough stress and strife in the world today without adding our two cents to it. I should be spreading good cheer, the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and encouragement wherever I can. Lifting someone's sagging spirit is an act of service; finding the good in someone, the silver lining in a situation, are also acts of service. As President Nelson said, "Peacemakers Needed!" and that takes Christian courage. Elder Hales ended his talk with the prayer "That we may share His eternal, unconditional love with our brothers and sisters everywhere,". I think that's as needed today as it ever was.
