“Contents,” New Era, Aug. 2013, inside front cover–1 New Era Contents Departments 2 The Message Four Words to Guide You President Thomas S. Monson As we fulfill these pledges, we can have the guidance of our Heavenly Father and experience true joy. 5 Line upon Line Hebrews 5:4 How priesthood authority is given from God. 10 For the Strength of Youth We “Speak” after These Things Larry M. Gibson The words we use reflect who we really are. 13 Come, Follow Me A Christ-centered home; preparing for a happy marriage. (* Check out this article for support for this month’s Sunday lesson theme.) 14 Questions & Answers “How do I ‘stand in holy places’ when there’s so much unholiness around me, like at school?” 19 Mormonad Lend a Hand 42 To the Point Parties with boys and girls; having doubts about the gospel. 43 The Extra Smile 44 What’s Up? Conference connection; an unexpected calling; tips for hiking; missionary Sudoku; and more. 46 Instant Messages Music lessons and missionary work; Personal Progress and goats; praying for an uncle’s family. 48 From Church Leaders How to Prepare for Your Future Elder Russell M. Nelson Remember, your goal is exaltation and eternal life. 49 Conference Poster The Great Test of This Life Is Obedience President Thomas S. Monson Features 6 Dynamic Deacons Learn how deacons quorum presidents are magnifying their callings. 8 How Seminary Changed Me and My Family Forever Great things came to a young woman and her family through seminary. 12 Choosing Not to Gossip One backstage crew’s chatter wasn’t as secret as they thought. 16 Operation Happiness A young woman with a rare disorder also has a rare drive to serve others. 20 Work, Service, and Spiritual Self-Reliance Elder Per G. Malm When you live righteously and you serve, you will be given help and powers beyond your own. 22 From First to Last Chair He was used to being first chair in the clarinet section. How could he blow it now? 24 Joining the Lord’s Army From Christian ministry to the military, one young man shares his journey to the Church. 27 The Field-Goal Principle On the field and in living the gospel, practice makes perfect. 28 The Mitch Mobile To help their friend Mitchell, these young men applied some ingenuity. 30 Why Temple Marriage? Learn why marriage—especially temple marriage—matters so much. (* Check out this article for support for this month’s Sunday lesson theme.) 33 Waiting for an Answer When a young woman prayed for someone to help her, Heavenly Father gave her a different answer. 34 Blessings of Fasting Fasting does more for you (and others) than help you deal with hunger. 36 2 Envelopes Paying tithing meant giving up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. What to do? 38 The Other Six Great blessings come from living all of the Ten Commandments.