“God… Doth Grant… Whatsoever… is Right”

As God grants only that which is right, so must we. We must give as freely as God gives, seeking to do so in the wisdom that is his. Unwise giving can create addiction, indolence, and dependence; it can be destructive to the character and spirit of man. “The idler shall not have place in the church,” the Lord declared, “except he repent and mend his ways” (D&C 75:29). “If any provide not for his own,” Paul wrote, “and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel” (1 Timothy 5:8).

“Grant Unto You Whatsoever Ye Ask That Is Right”

God, who possesses the attribute of charity in its perfection, is our pattern for appropriate giving. He has promised to give us all that we ask “which is right” (3 Nephi 18:20), or “that is expedient.” He has said, “If ye ask anything that is not expedient for you, it shall turn unto your condemnation” (D&C 88:64-65). As a rule of thumb, we can determine the what and how of that which we should share with those professing some need by following the same principles that a bishop is to follow in administering Church resources to those in need of help from the Church.

Doctrinal Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 2

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