Following leaders is the path of safety

Back in the early 80's I purchased a copy of The Teaching of Spencer W. Kimball (Edward Kimball., ed. Bookcraft. 1982).  I wore it out.  I purchased another copy and lost it in a move.  Recently, I ordered a used copy from a book seller's website.  When the package arrived,  I opened it and immediately  looked for some of my favorite quotes and in doing so, I was surprised to see many statements that hit home about today's  most pressing national issues.

We need to carefully follow the counsel of our living leaders, but if we really want a testimony of the power of the gift of prophecy on these men, go back and read what they said twenty or thirty years ago.  If we have concerns about immigration issues, read the words of President Kimball.  If we want to understand the challenges facing our nation regading it's finacial obligations, read the words of President Harold B. Lee.  If you want to know about government and the Constitution, read the words of President Ezra Taft Benson.  If we want to know how to face the threat of terrorism, read from the life of Howard W. Hunter.  If we lose sleep at night about issues of media bias, having a bedside copy of  anything written by President Gordon B. Hinckley, would serve better than a glass of warm milk.

A "prophet" who can't anticipate future events is not a prophet.  We have men at the head of our church who do see the course of future events and they really do give us a warning voice.  

"Following leaders is the path of safety.  Every normal person may have a sure way of knowing what is right and what is wrong.  He may learn the gospel and receive the Holy Spirit which will always guide him as to right and wrong.  In addition to this, he has the leaders of the Lord's church.  And the only sure, safe way is to follow that leadership--follow the Holy Spirit within you and follow the prophets, dead and living." (Edward Kimball., ed.  The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball.  Bookcraft. 1982 pg. 459).