Sustaining the Prophet of God

I was able to participate in a solemn assembly today, even though I viewed general conference at home. This gave me, along with everyone else in the Church, the opportunity to sustain President Thomas S. Monson as the prophet. I believe in prophets. It is a miraculous thing to think a man could be the spokesman for God here on earth. Can mortal man be trusted with such a responsibility? God must think so, for he has had prophets proclaiming His word from the beginning. Of course, it's not just any man.

What a wonderful blessing to have a mouthpiece in place declaring God's word. I am grateful. There is so much malevolence and pervasive meanness in the world. If that's what I had to hang on to, I would have little hope. Instead, my confidence and peace are strong knowing that God has provided me with sure guidance.

For some reason, it's easier to believe the Bible stories of Noah, Moses, and other ancient prophets; but to follow a prophet, here and now, is another story. Those that crucified Christ are evidence of that; their "King of Kings", and "Lord of Lords", was before them. He walked with them, performed miracles, all along declaring truth; and yet, they did not see, and had him crucified.

History reveals that prophets were scorned in their day. What do people picture a prophet of God to be like? Pride can take over humble thinking. If we study the scriptures, pray, have faith, do the will of the Father, we will see things clearly, we will follow the living prophet, and know that he speaks today and stands as a witness of Christ.

Ezra Taft Benson spoke at BYU and gave "Fourteen Fundamentals in Following the Prophet". Check yourself, Do you sustain the prophet and follow his counsel?

1. The prophet is the only man who speaks for the Lord in everything.

2. The living prophet is more vital to us than the standard works.

3. The living prophet is more important to us than a dead prophet.

4. The prophet will never lead the church astray.

5. The prophet is not required to have any particular earthly training or credentials to speak on any subject or act on any matter at any time.

6. The prophet does not have to say “Thus Saith the Lord,” to give us scripture.

7. The prophet tells us what we need to know, not always what we want to know.

8. The prophet is not limited by men’s reasoning.

9. The prophet can receive revelation on any matter, temporal or spiritual.

10. The prophet may advise on civic matters.

11. The two groups who have the greatest difficulty in following the prophet are the proud who are learned and the proud who are rich.

12. The prophet will not necessarily be popular with the world or the worldly.

13. The prophet and his counselors make up the First Presidency—the highest quorum in the Church.

14. The prophet and the presidency—the living prophet and the First Presidency—follow them and be blessed—reject them and suffer.

Ezra Taft Benson, “Fourteen Fundamentals in Following the Prophet,” Tambuli, Jun 1981, 1

It is my testimony that we need to keep our eyes on the prophet. God loves us, that's why we have a prophet. There is no need to be left to the perverse opinions of the world. We need to listen and do the word of God. Following the prophet means following the Savior. I know from experience and the Spirit has confirmed my understanding, do the will of God and blessings come. There is beauty, joy, and happiness to be found through Jesus Christ. I know Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God on earth today. I pray we will follow him, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.