Follow His Example

by President Joseph Fielding Smith

The apostle James gave us this counsel: “Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example. …” (James 5:10.) Those were his words. He then praised the patience of Job and the faith of Elias, who, he said, “was a man subject to like passions as we are,” and yet had power to work miracles.

But the greatest example ever set for men was that of the Son of God himself. His life was perfect. He did all things well and was able to say to all men, “Follow thou me,” and we all should pattern our lives after his.

I shall give you an illustration from his life. He taught the people how to pray and then said: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always, lest ye be tempted by the devil, and ye be led away captive by him. And as I have prayed among you even so shall ye pray in my church, among my people who do repent and are baptized in my name. Behold I am the light; I have set an example for you. … Therefore, hold up your light that it may shine unto the world. Behold I am the light which ye shall hold up—that which ye have seen me do. …” (3 Ne. 18:15–16, 24.)

Perhaps his most perfect counsel in this respect was given to the Nephite disciples. “What manner of men ought ye to be?” he asked, and then gave this answer: “Verily I say unto you, even as I am.”

May I say that those who follow his example will become like him and be glorified with him in his Father’s kingdom; to gain honor, power, and authority. To certain Nephite disciples who had followed him with full purpose of heart he said: “… ye shall be even as I am, and I am even as the Father; and the Father and I are one.” (3 Ne. 28:10.)

Now I rejoice in the great blessings we have received as members of the Church and kingdom of God on earth. I thank the Lord for all that he has so bounteously showered upon us.

I pray that we may all walk in his footsteps and keep his commandments so that we may be like him. This is my desire. I hope it is yours.

I testify that the work we are engaged in is true and desire to leave my blessings with you, in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.