The Power of the Priesthood

This entry is part of my general conference application series.

The Power of the Priesthood, by President Boyd K. Packer
President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles


Do you like salt? I've heard that salt is amazing for many reasons, including: it can make anything taste better (granted that you use the right amount), and it aids in healing (it might sting, but it does heal).


Despite the benefits of salt, many health experts advise to limit salt consumption because of the harmful effects on the heart if a diet includes too much salt.

In summary, a little—or the right amount of—salt is good; too much is bad. Remember this as you recall the Sermon on the Mount: "Ye are the salt of the earth" (Matt 5:13).

In a recent church meeting, I heard someone use this reference (and others) to allude to the fact the the Lord's covenant people will be relatively few in number—despite the gospel message being spread far and wide. I was reminded of this as I reviewed President Packer's comments that:

We now number nearly 14 million members. Even so, we are a tiny fraction when compared to the billions of people on earth. But we are who we are, and we know what we know, and we are to go forth and preach the gospel.

Despite the proper salting of the earth, President Packer reminded that:

We can and in due time certainly will influence all of humanity. It will be known who we are and why we are.

Considering the fewness of our numbers may add emphasis to the observation that "it has never been easy to live the gospel of Jesus Christ." Nevertheless, "we have very positive feelings about what lies ahead."

Considering the doom-and-gloom state of events (as portrayed in nightly newscasts), how can we feel positive? After a meaningful explanation, the summary is given:

The power of the priesthood [is] given to the Church to protect us and guide us. And because we have that, we have no fear of the future.

I'm grateful for the authority and power of the priesthood and the blessings that are available to me, to my family, and to the world!