As you learn about your priesthood duties, it’s important to know not just what your duties are but why it’s important to do them (see President Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s address on this subject at lds.org/go/123Why). If you don’t understand why you serve, then you probably won’t be as motivated to serve. And it’s much easier to serve with motivation. As Gary F., 15, from Utah, USA, explains, “While it’s good to be doing what you’re supposed to do, it helps to know why you’re doing it. When you understand why, you want to work harder and do more because you’re doing it for an important cause and not just because you’re expected to or are supposed to be serving.”
So why do you serve? Here’s what several young men had to say. Share your thoughts at lds.org/go/123Serve.
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young man
“When I was ordained as deacons quorum president, I found this to be a great responsibility but was determined to carry out this calling to the best of my ability. I was excited to serve my fellow brethren. Priesthood power is a wonderful gift to hold and has motivated me to serve in any way I can.”
Eghosa O., 16, England
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young man
“We give priesthood service because it’s our privileged duty that God entrusted to us here on earth. I serve not only because I love the priesthood and love serving but also because while I serve I feel even closer to my Heavenly Father.”
Ryan H., 18, California, USA
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young man
“We serve in our callings because we have been called by the Lord through our quorum presidencies or bishop. Thinking about why we serve helps us serve our fellow members. Serving in a calling is something that no priesthood holder should back down from, no matter how daunting the task may seem.”
Jayden B., 15, Australia
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young men
“Understanding why I give priesthood service helped me become a better missionary while acting as deacons quorum president. As new people joined my quorum, I got to teach them how a deacon should act and help them with their duties. The more I serve, the greater my understanding and desire to serve others become.”
Lynden A., 14, England (on left, his brother Mikaeel, 11)
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“The more I can do to magnify my calling and serve the Lord, the happier I can be. For every act of service done in my calling, it seems as though the Lord blesses me tenfold. My calling has also been a blessing to the lives of others. I know that because of my service in the Church, my family is blessed and brought closer together. Service in a calling can literally transform your life and bring sincere, true happiness to you and everyone else around you. My calling has inspired me to do more and to serve a mission, and for that I am eternally grateful.”
Joshua N., 16, Utah, USA
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“When I was called as the teachers quorum president in my ward last year, I was inspired to focus many of my efforts on directing other young men in the Scouting program. I wish to inspire the other young men to yearn for the blessings and lessons found in the great experience of Scouting. I hope that my actions can serve as a guide for the future young men in my ward.”