2013
Stop It!
June 2013


“Stop It!” Friend, June 2013, 2–3

From the First Presidency

Stop It!

From an April 2012 general conference address.

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President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

When we feel hurt, angry, or envious, it is quite easy to judge people. This topic could actually be taught in a two-word sermon. When it comes to hating, gossiping, ignoring, ridiculing, holding grudges, or wanting to cause harm, please apply the following:

Stop it!

We have to stop judging others and replace judgmental thoughts and feelings with a heart full of love for God and His children. God is our Father. We are His children. We are all brothers and sisters.

Is this difficult to do? Yes. How is it done? Through the love of God.

  • Let us be kind.

  • Let us forgive.

  • Let us talk peacefully with each other.

  • Let the love of God fill our hearts.

  • “Let us do good unto all men” (Galatians 6:10).

Jesus said it is easy to love those who love us. But Jesus Christ taught a higher law. His words are meant for us today. They are meant for you and me: “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

When our hearts are filled with the love of God, we become “kind one to another” (Ephesians 4:32). The merciful obtain mercy. Of this I testify.

Illustration by Vincent Nguyen; scissors © iStockphoto

Illustrations by Mark Robison