No matter who we are called to lead, our real job is to be of service to those who are under our stewardship. The emphasis in Elder Monson's talk is on working with youth, but the principles apply in every circumstance.
"As we listen to the pleas of these young people, as we survey the problems that they encounter, we need more than an accurate diagnosis of the ailment. We require and search for a proper prescription for a lasting cure.
The pathway that will lead us to such a solution will require certain promises on our part as leaders. Will you, with me, commit yourself to the work of the Lord and consider the promises that would enhance your influence in the lives of youth? Let us consider such promises.
First, I promise to be willing. The Lord has declared: "The Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of Zion in these last days." (D&C 64:34.)
Through such willing service, we will not be in the position of Shakespeare's Cardinal Wolsey, who after a life of service to this king, stripped of his power, sadly lamented, "Had I but served my God with the zeal I served my king, he would not in mine age have left me naked to mine enemies."
Second, I promise to be informed. Remember the counsel of the Lord:"Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence." (D&C 107:99.)
Third, I promise to be diligent. I will magnify my calling. What does it mean to magnify a calling? It means to build it up in dignity and importance, to make it honorable and commendable in the eyes of all mankind, to enlarge and strengthen it, to let the light of heaven shine through it to the view of other men. And how does one magnify a calling? Simply by performing the service that pertains to it. In short, we magnify our callings by learning what our duties are and then by performing them.
. . . .Fourth, I promise to be prayerful. "Remember," said the Lord, "the worth of soul is great in the sight of God." (D&C 18:10.) As we develop an appreciation of this great truth, we will come to realize that we affect eternity; we determine destiny. We cannot succeed alone.
Our challenge is to eliminate the weakness of a youth standing alone and to substitute therefor the strength of youth and leaders serving together
. . . . Fifth, I promise to be understanding. Among our youth are some who have transgressed the laws of God, who have been deceived by the evil one, and who seek from us an understanding heart and a guide to the pathway of repentance and exaltation in the kingdom of our Heavenly Father. We, in effect, stand at the crossroads of their lives." ( Thomas S. Monson. Be Your Best Self. Deseret Book. 1979. pgs146-8)
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