Withstanding Temptation

Catching Fish

The goal of the fly fisherman is to catch trout through skillful deception. The adept fisherman studies trout behavior, weather, the water current, and the types of insects trout eat and when those insects hatch. He will often craft by hand the lures he uses. He knows these artificial insects embedded with tiny hooks need to be a perfect deception because the trout will identify even the slightest flaw and reject the fly.

What a thrill it is to watch a trout break the surface of the water, inhale the fly, and resist until it is finally exhausted and reeled in. The test is the pitting of the fisherman’s knowledge and skill against the noble trout.

The use of artificial lures to fool and catch a fish is an example of the way Lucifer often tempts, deceives, and tries to ensnare us.

Like the fly fisherman who knows that trout are driven by hunger, Lucifer knows our “hunger,” or weaknesses, and tempts us with counterfeit lures which, if taken, can cause us to be yanked from the stream of life into his unmerciful influence. And unlike a fly fisherman who catches and releases the fish unharmed back into the water, Lucifer will not voluntarily let go. His goal is to make his victims as miserable as he is.

Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

The old saying “The Lord is voting for me, and Lucifer is voting against me, but it is my vote that counts” describes a doctrinal certainty that our agency is more powerful than the adversary’s will. Agency is precious. We can foolishly, blindly give it away, but it cannot be forcibly taken from us.

There is also an age-old excuse: “The devil made me do it.” Not so! He can deceive you and mislead you, but he does not have the power to force you or anyone else to transgress or to keep you in transgression.

President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Parents can prevent a lot of heartache by teaching their children to postpone romantic relationships until the time comes when they are ready for marriage. Prematurely pairing off with a boyfriend or girlfriend is dangerous. Becoming a “couple” creates emotional intimacy, which too often leads to physical intimacy. Satan knows this sequence and uses it to his advantage. He will do whatever he can to keep young men from serving missions and to prevent temple marriages.

Elder Larry R. Lawrence of the Seventy

It is contrary to the economy of heaven for the Lord to repeat to each of us individually what He has already revealed to us collectively. The scriptures contain the words of Christ. They are the voice of the Lord. Studying the scriptures trains us to hear the Lord’s voice.

David M. McConkie, first counselor in the Sunday School general presidency

Satan’s increasing influence in the world is allowed to provide an atmosphere in which to prove ourselves. While he causes havoc today, Satan’s final destiny was fixed by Jesus Christ through His Atonement and the Resurrection. The devil will not triumph. Even now he must operate within the bounds set by the Lord. He cannot take away any blessing that has been earned. He cannot alter character that has been woven from righteous decisions. He has no power to destroy eternal bonds forged in a holy temple between a husband, wife, and children. He cannot quench true faith. He cannot take away your testimony. Yes, these things can be lost by succumbing to his temptations. But he has no power in and of himself to destroy them.

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Freedom and light have never been easy to attain or maintain. Since the War in Heaven, the forces of evil have used every means possible to destroy agency and extinguish light. The assault on moral principles and religious freedom has never been stronger.

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

So much of what the speakers were saying seemed especially for me. I received a greater testimony of the importance of the gospel in my life and the lives of my family. I especially loved Elder Ballard’s talk about Satan’s counterfeits, and avoiding addictive behaviors and media, as well as substances. I know that God loves me personally and that He has called prophets and apostles to help me return home to Him.

Emma G., 15, Missouri, USA

I noticed the word fundamentals a lot. I thought this was interesting because it means we need to pay attention to the basic and most important things. I also liked President Boyd K. Packer’s talk because it covered lots of basic principles.

Ceana B., 15, Oregon, USA

When I was watching general conference, I was so very humbled. I learned a lot of great messages about young people and the problems we are faced with in everyday life. With all the temptation we are faced with, we must stay on the strait and narrow path to Heavenly Father.

Abigail C., 13, New York, USA