“Lest Ye Be Tempted by the Devil”

Joseph F. McConkie, Robert L. Millet

One cannot reasonably pray for strength to resist temptation and then carelessly and recklessly flirt with evil. Just as we are saved by the grace of God only “after all we can do” (see 2 Nephi 25:23) our faith and payers an efficacious only after “all eve can do” in watching our thoughts, words, and deeds (see Mosiah 4:30), lest by our own negligence we fall into transgression. If we fail to “watch and pray continually” we can indeed “be tempted above that which [web] can bear.” We must constantly be watchful as well as prayerful to ensure that our thoughts, words, and deeds stay in the “spiritual safe zone.” Just as the Savior promised protection to the Nephites, his promise is likewise conveyed to its today through the scriptures and living prophets who testify that if eve are diligently watchful and prayerful, we “will be given the strength to shun any temptation” (Ezra Taft Benson, The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, p. 435).

Doctrinal Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 4

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