Mutual youth counseled: 'Be an example of the believers'

It's easy for the youth of the Church to find examples some good, some bad. But young men and women might sometimes forget that they themselves are examples to others. Yes, it's vital that Mutual-aged members identify and follow the examples of faithful friends and family members. But Church leaders say it's equally important

It's easy for the youth of the Church to find examples — some good, some bad. But young men and women might sometimes forget that they themselves are examples to others. Yes, it's vital that Mutual-aged members identify and follow the examples of faithful friends and family members. But Church leaders say it's equally important that young people be strong examples themselves — in word, conversation, charity, spirit, faith and purity.

The Church News invited members of the Young Women and Young Men general presidencies to share their thoughts about 2009's Mutual Theme. They discussed how young people in the Church could best utilize 1 Timothy 4:12 in their own lives, as they become "examples of the believers."

"I have always loved [1 Timothy 4:12] because it speaks to the youth and gives them not only guidance on being examples but also counsels them how to be an example," observed Young Men General President Charles W. Dahlquist II.

Brother Dahlquist's counterpart in the Young Women General Presidency, Sister Elaine S. Dalton, said she cannot think of a timelier, more inspired theme than this theme at this time.

"We have great confidence in the youth," she said. "We know who they are. We know they have been reserved to be on the earth at this time. And we know that they have a great work to accomplish."

The message — "Be an example of the believers" — is as important in this time as it was when Paul gave it to Timothy, she said. "For our youth, this theme is all about the power of righteous influence. We have more influence than we know as we are an example of the things that we believe."

Included in Brother Dahlquist's patriarchal blessing is counsel to "look to the light which is above," and to be an example for others. "That has always reminded me of the importance of example — and realizing that we are, indeed, an example to others," he said.

Spiritual heroes, added Brother Dahlquist, can help strengthen young people.

"I would love for all the youth throughout the Church to focus this year on identifying their own heroes as well as becoming a hero to someone in need."

Brother Dahlquist's first counselor, Dean Burgess, counseled young people to first learn what it means to be a "believer" by understanding their divine relationship with the Savior. This can come through prayer, studying the words of the Lord's prophets and by offering Christ-like service.

Once a young person understands what it means to be a believer, he or she can then act as Christ's disciple, said Brother Burgess. A young man or woman can become a "believing" example to others who are watching, perhaps unseen.

Believers "act and become what Heavenly Father wants them to become," he said.

Mary N. Cook, first counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, said the 2009 Mutual Theme helps youth look outward. "They know that as a believer you are to look outward to serve people, whether it is your family, the school, the neighbor or the widow."

Michael A. Neider, second counselor in the Young Men General Presidency, said the 2009 Mutual Theme challenges the youth of the Church to identify personal goals that will help them become an "example of the believers."

Such goals can help them become a positive example for their friends, family and classmates.

Brother Neider said it is his hope that young men and young women take ownership of Paul's challenge to young Timothy to be an example. "Our Savior is depending on us."

Ann M. Dibb, second counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, said, "now is the time" for the youth to prepare for the future.

Being an example of a believer "is how they can become what the Lord knows they can become and how He will be able to use them in the future," she said. "As they become examples of the believers, they will determine how they will be remembered and how they will be prepared."

Sister Dalton said the youth also need to look within themselves and determine this year to be better than they have ever been before. She hopes Latter-day Saint youth will text their friends and say, "In 2009, I am going to be an example of the believers. Will you join me?"

They can be a force for good, she explained.

"We continually pray for the youth of Zion throughout the world," declared Brother Dahlquist, "that they will not only be steadfast and immovable, as we stressed in 2008, but that they also will reach down and be an example of the believers . . . to those around them, including members of their families, friends, neighbors and strangers as well.

jswensen@desnews.com

sarah@desnews.com

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