The  Determination Of Our Destiny
Decisions are constantly before us which can determine our destiny.  In order for us to make the correct decision, courage is needed - the courage to say no when we should, the courage to say yes when that is appropriate, the courage to do the right thing because it is right.

Inasmuch as the trend in society today is rapidly moving away from the values and principles the LORD has given us, we will almost certainly be called upon to defend that which we believe.  Will we have the courage to do so?

The call for courage comes in many forms.  The Christian author Charles Swindoll wrote: "Courage is not limited to the battlefield...or bravely catching a thief  in your house.  The real tests of courage are much quieter.  They are inner tests, like remaining faithful when no one's looking...like standing alone when you're misunderstood."

This inner courage also includes doing the right thing even though we may be afraid, defending our beliefs at the risk of being ridiculed, and maintaining those beliefs even when threatened with a loss of friends or of social status.  The person who stands steadfastly for that which is right must risk becoming at times disapproved and unpopular.

Courage becomes a living and an attractive virtue when it is regarded not only as a willingness to die manfully, but also as the determination to live decently.

 Elder Norm Masters    Sacrament Meeting Talk     July 2014