The Rising Generation

As I was reading my scriptures the other morning one particular verse
caught my attention. I've read this verse many times, but for some
reason this time it struck me with quite a bit of force. The
words "rising generation"seemed to jump out at me
and I realized this was church members children that were
being spoken of.

Mosiah 26:1,3 -- "Now it came to pass that there were many of
the "rising generation" that could not understand the words of
King Benjamin, being little children at the time he spake unto
his people; and they did not believe in the traditions of their fathers.
And now because of their unbelief they could not understand
the word of God, and their hearts were hardened."

I pondered these verses I had read during the day and again
thought how important it is that my grandchildren be given
a firm foundation, that they understand the principles of the
gospel, that we continually teach and be good examples in all
we do. It is important that we keep our family home evenings
going and that we teach simply, yet clearly, the principles
of the gospel so that they are planted or written with
an "iron pen" upon their hearts. I must strive to always be a good
example and show continual love and appreciation for them.
They have so much more to deal with than my children, their
parents did, or for that matter, than I did.

Later in the day, I was surprised as I opened the "Ensign" to
review the Visiting Teaching message I was to give that
afternoon to note the title "Nurturing the Rising Generation".
We were reminded that it is our duty to nourish, strengthen
and be a good influence in the lives of these young people.

We live in critical times where our children are being pulled
in many directions through the influence of friends, cell phones,
the internet, TV. movies, music, etc. Where good is evil and
evil is good, where many are "deceived with flattering words".

Later I happened to tune in to Dr. Phil and was saddened and
almost sickened to see the program he was airing. I seldom
watch him or similar shows, but this caught my attention
because of the influence, persuasion, and pressure of
young people's peers. I was surprised--well, maybe not so
much--at the pressure that is being placed on young people
to participate in things that are immoral. It was interesting
and yet disappointing to me to see how they justified their
behaviors and actions. (Just like some kids have been doing
here in the school district) It made me think all the more of
this scripture and the influence the adversary is having on
our young people...actually, all of us. How careful and
mindful we must be!

I hope and pray that I will always take advantage of
opportunities that come my way to influence the
rising generation( my grandchildren and others) in righteous
actions and choices. We must teach with clarity and persuasion.
I worry about them and pray for them constantly for they
are some of our Heavenly Father's choices spirits.

I know this rising generation is strong and many have
a much better understanding of the gospel than I did at their age,
but we musn't and can't allow outside influences
to pull them away from the gospel, to minimize standards,
to question the prophet and neglect their scriptures and prayers.
We must instill in them the importance of family (not TV's families)
and choosing friends wisely. We must help them to have a
testimony of the Savior and His Atonement. It must come line upon
line, precept upon precept so that it becomes an integral
part of their lives so that when the winds and storms of life
come, they will not waver, that their foundations will be
strong and enable them to stand.

We must continually teach, love and nurture this
rising generationso that they will remain
true and faithful and fulfill the great mission that is theirs.