"True to the Faith that our Parents Have Cherished!"

Chapter 34 "Sharing and Defending Family Proclamation Principles"

"We call upon responsible citizens…everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."

When I think of defending my beliefs as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the hymn, 'True to the Faith' instantly starts playing in my mind. What better lyrics than these, to pump you up about standing firm and letting the world know that we are proud of being members of this great gospel.

 Shall the youth of Zion falter

In defending truth and right?

While the enemy assaileth,

Shall we shrink or shun the fight? No!

True to the faith that our parents have cherished,

True to the truth for which martyrs have perished,

To God's command,

Soul, heart, and hand,

Faithful and true we will ever stand.

While we know the pow'rs of darkness

Seek to thwart the work of God,

Shall the children of the promise

Cease to grasp the iron rod? No!

We will work out our salvation;

We will cleave unto the truth;

We will watch and pray and labor

With the fervent zeal of youth. Yes!

We will strive to be found worthy

Of the kingdom of our Lord,

With the faithful ones redeemed

Who have loved and kept his word. Yes!

I have had an experience recently where I have had to stand up for my beliefs concerning the Proclamation and the safeguarding of the traditional marriage. 

I have a very good childhood friend who has decided to leave the church because her ideas and opinions about the practices of the church. I was hurt when I heard this news, and quite frankly shocked to hear that she had chosen to live a life committed to her same-sex attraction. Unfortunately, she allowed the gates of sin to open completely, and is now fully involved in a life of  alcohol, premarital sex, partying and does not support the teachings of the prophet or the church. I was able to have a conversation with her about the church principles and teachings of the family. Although we did not see eye to eye, I was able to bear my testimony to her about how I felt. I can only continue to do this with her, as well as pray that she will remember the feelings of the spirit and someday come back to the fold. Though it is not always easy, I have continued to try to be Christ-like and show her an unconditional love as well.

I would like to challenge other members of the church to show love and compassion to those who are struggling with their testimonies and faith. It is important to let those people know that we are true Christian, and that we do not just turn the other cheek. We need to be prepared to show compassion, as well as help other understand or beliefs and feel the spirit  as often as possible. If we are prepared, our approach and our answers will come easier and kinder. 

Dare to Stand Alone By President Thomas S. Monson

President Monson also encourages us to stand up for what is right, even when times get tough.