Nothing is so much calculated to lead people to forsake sin as to take them by the hand, and watch over them with tenderness. When persons manifest the least kindness and love to me, O what power it has over my mind, while the opposite course has a tendency to harrow up all the harsh feelings and depress the human mind.
History of the Church, 5:23–24.
In relation to the power over the minds of mankind which I hold, I would say, it is in consequence of the power of truth in the doctrines which I have been an instrument in the hands of God of presenting unto them, and not because of any compulsion on my part.
History of the Church, 6:273; capitalization modernized.
A brother who works in the
St. Louis Gazette office . . . wanted to know by what principle I got so much power. . . . I told him I obtained power on the principles of truth and virtue, which would last when I was dead and gone.
History of the Church, 6:343.
I am at all times willing to give up everything that is wrong, for I wish this people to have a virtuous leader.
History of the Church, 6:412.
