May Bishopric Message

In the October 2009 General Conference Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke of the importance of moral discipline in our lives. This talk will be studied in Priesthood and Relief Society as the “Teachings for Our Times” lesson on May 23rd. We encourage each of you to study this talk in full.

Elder Christofferson taught that "moral discipline is the consistent exercise of agency to choose the right because it is right, even when it is hard. It rejects the self-absorbed life in favor of developing character worthy of respect and true greatness through Christlike service (see Mark 10:42–45)… Our moral discipline is rooted in loyalty and devotion to the Father and the Son. It is the gospel of Jesus Christ that provides the moral certainty upon which moral discipline rests."

It is important that we teach our children moral discipline as it is disappearing from society. Our children will likely face a world that is more conflicted than our own where the line between good and evil is further distorted. When we teach them what is acceptable in the Lords eyes, regardless of social norms, they will know what is expected of them and will be able to evaluate the alternatives that come before them. As parents, we must constantly help our children establish their moral compasses by teaching and example. This should be done in the home where the Spirit of the Lord is present.

President Henry B. Eyring teaches, “the pure gospel of Jesus Christ must go down into the hearts of [our children] by the power of the Holy Ghost. It will not be enough for them to have had a spiritual witness of the truth and to want good things later. It will not be enough for them to hope for some future cleansing and strengthening. Our aim must be for them to become truly converted to the restored gospel of Jesus Christ while they are with us. . . .

As a Bishopric, we invite you to follow Elder Christoff erson's message to teach our children moral discipline and to follow it ourselves. We know that as we follow this council our children will be able to make correct moral decisions that will guide them on the path of our Savior Jesus Christ and lead them back to the presence of our Father in Heaven.

May the Lord bless each of you as you strive to strengthen your homes and improve your personal lives.

Bishop Buttars
Brother Harper
Brother Flamm

Click here to read and watch Elder D. Todd Christofferson's talk "Moral Discipline"