Joseph Smith on the subject of ego

We are so very blessed to have the wisdom of prophets of God.  In the midst of all the media and buzz wordsof the world, comes the simple and direct teachings of the men who have been called by God to be his mouthpiece in these days.  Joseph Smith was the first of this dispensation to be called upon to serve as an authorized representative our our Heavenly Father and his son, Jesus Christ.

Author Truman G. Madsen, quotes Joseph Smith in saying:

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"Now one of the strongest and wisest statements I have ever heard on the subject of egoism.  The question was put to him, 'Joseph, is the principle of self-aggrandizement wrong?  Should we seek our own good?'   Listen to his answer.  'It  is a correct principle and may be indulged upon only one rule or plan--and that is to elevate, benefit, and bless others first.  If you will elevate others, the very work itself will exalt you.  Upon no other plan can a man justly and permanently aggrandize himself.'  That is another way of saying with the New Testament, "Whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.'  To paraphrase:  He that seeketh to save his life has mere physical survival.  He that is against me, or indifferent to me, will lose it.  'What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?'  Nothing.