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True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior

"One things is clear: the safest place and the best protection against the moral and spiritual diseases is a stable home and family.  This has always been true; it will be true forever.  We must keep that foremost in our minds.  The scriptures speak of 'the shield of faith wherewith,' the Lord said, 'ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked' (D&C 27:17).  The shield of faith is best fabricated in a cottage industry.  While the shield can be polished in classes in the Church and in activities, it is meant to be handcrafted in the home and fitted to each individual.  The Lord said, 'Take upon you my whole armor, that ye may be able to withstand the evil day, having done all, that ye may be able to stand' (D&C 27:15).

Our young people are in many ways much stronger and better than we were.  They and we should not be afraid of what is ahead.  Encourage our young people.  They need not live in fear (see D&C 6:36).  Fear is the opposite of faith.

While we cannot erase wickedness, we can produce young Latter-Day Saints who, spiritually nourished, are immunized against evil influences.  As a grandfather who has lived a long time, I counsel you to have faith.  Things have a way of working out.  Stay close to the Church.  Keep your children close to the Church.

In Alma's day 'the preaching of the word had a greater tendency to lead the people to do that which was just--yea...it had more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else, which had happened to them--therefore Alma thought it was expedient that they should try the virtue of the word of God' (Alma 31:5).

True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior.  The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior." (emphasis added)

Boyd K. Packer, "Do Not Fear", Ensign, May 2004, 77
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