2012
How to Be a Disciple of Christ
August 2012

“How to Be a Disciple of Christ,” New Era, Aug. 2012, 48

How to Be a Disciple of Christ

By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Second Counselor in the First Presidency

From the general conference address “The Way of the Disciple,” Ensign, May 2009, 77–78.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

The first step on the path of discipleship begins in the exact place where we stand! We do not have to prequalify to take that first step. It doesn’t matter if we are rich or poor. There is no requirement to be educated, eloquent, or intellectual. We do not have to be perfect or well-spoken or even well-mannered. You and I can walk in the path of discipleship today.

young man reading scriptures

  • Let us be humble; let us pray to our Father in Heaven with all our heart and express our desire to draw close to Him and learn of Him.

  • Have faith.

  • Seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened. (See Matthew 7:7.)

  • Serve the Lord by serving others.

  • Become an active participant in your ward or branch.

  • Strengthen your family by committing to live the principles of the gospel. Be of one heart and of one mind in your family.

  • Adjust your lives to be able to have a temple recommend and use it.

  • Have meaningful family home evenings, read the word of God, and speak to our Heavenly Father in earnest prayer.

  • Fill our hearts with gratitude for the Restoration of His Church, for living prophets, the Book of Mormon, and the priesthood power that blesses our lives.

  • Embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, become His disciples, and walk in His way.

I invite you to start where you are and come to the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Walk again in the way of the Lord. I testify that the Lord will bless your life, endow you with knowledge and joy beyond comprehension, and distill upon you the supernal gifts of the Spirit. It is always the right time to walk in His way. It is never too late.