Internal dissension and conflict are the seedbed for the destruction of families, communities, and nations. Contention weakens spiritual objectives and saps the energy needed for spiritual growth. By way of contrast, peace, unity, and the light of the gospel are the fruits of righteous endeavor and the sure foundation of covenant honor.
President Harold B. Lee counseled: “Be unified. If there is dissension, if there is disharmony, if there is a lack of unity, it is a sure sign that the Spirit of the Lord is not there. The Lord said, ‘Be one; and if ye are not one, ye are not mine’ (D&C 38:27)” (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1996], 466). Let us remember always that contention is of the devil (see 3 Nephi 11:29). Let us seek to be unified.
Memories: True to Our Values
Lack of unity destroys individual souls, families, wards, stakes, communities, and nations. The Lord reminds us that if we are not one we are not His (see D&C 38:27). If we live a life of hypocrisy we cannot be blessed with the Holy Spirit. We must be true to our values and standards and to the Lord. Families that have agreed-upon righteous values will be one in the faith. There will be no value collisions: “When should I be home? Whom can I date? Is sixteen really the acceptable year to date? Is it important to do my homework? Do I go to seminary? Are family scripture time, family prayer, family council, family home evening really that important? Is temple worthiness a goal? Should we be married in the temple? Is a mission for every young man?”
My sweetheart and I have five beautiful daughters and three handsome sons (thanks to their mother). One day, while at the dinner table, we were having a lively discussion about life—especially about teenage social life. One lovely daughter who was about fifteen-and-a-half casually mentioned a party that was coming up and announced that she would be going with a boy. I casually mentioned that that sounded like a date. She quickly said, “No, it’s kinda like a group party.” I suggested we talk for a moment. I reminded her of the things we had talked about. The problem was that with five daughters I somehow had not reemphasized the value and standard of dating at sixteen. It was my fault for not being a better teacher. I told her that it would not be appropriate. She was upset and stormed out of the room. For several days it was as if I was invisible—she ignored me, and I was praying for guidance on how to handle the disunity.
Finally, I invited her into my room, and as she sat there as I proceeded to explain to her how I wanted to be a good daddy and follow the prophet, and I began to cry. I pleaded for her help. The Spirit was magnificent. There was oneness. She felt my concern. She began to cry. She blurted out, “Oh, Daddy, I don’t want to go to that dumb party.” We hugged and I was so grateful for a righteous daughter. This same daughter at age twenty-one came to me one night pleading for a favor. It was Monday night and she asked if at about 7:30 p.m. she might go with some others to say goodbye to their dear friend who was going off to school. She said, “Oh, Dad, I know how important it is to be home on family home evening night … just this once.” “Of course,” I replied. She was an angel daughter who knew we cared as a family about family home evening. Yes, there can be unity in our lives as we learn to accept and live by the commandments of the Lord. (Ed J. Pinegar)