Choose to do good in things that matter

President Spencer W. Kimball, a former prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, stated:

 

"May I counsel you that when you select causes for which you give your time and talents and treasure in service to others, be careful to select good causes. There are so many of these causes to which you can give yourself fully and freely and which will produce much joy and happiness for you and for those you serve. There are other causes, from time to time, which may seem more fashionable and which may produce the applause of the world, but these are usually more selfish in nature. These latter causes tend to arise out of what the scriptures call "the commandments of men" [Matthew 15:9] rather than the commandments of God. Such causes have some virtues and some usefulness, but they are not as important as those causes which grow out of keeping the commandments of God."

 

He also said that "none of us should become so busy in our formal Church assignments that there is no room left for quiet Christian service to our neighbors." We give service in our congregations that is visible and rewarding because other people see us doing that service.  Too many times we give the appearance of being good Christians through our attendance at church meetings, our singing and prayers.  However, what really will make a difference is the kind acts we do for each other and for those in need.  I've often heard it said that God uses us as his instruments in blessing others and answering their prayers. 

 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a home teaching and visiting teaching program where every man and woman in a congregation is assigned to visit monthly a family or woman to see that their spiritual and temporal needs are cared for.  It might be a gospel message that uplifts, a meal, a house repair, or just being company when someone needs someone else.  It's these acts of service that are among the good causes Pres. Kimball is talking about.  There are other good causes in the service of others, but often the most worthy are those that go unrecognized and are given with no thought of reward. Service on a committee or board is already rewarded.  It is what one does beyond this service for individuals that truly makes a difference.

 

(See other things Pres. Kimball said about service at http://tinyurl.com/237muk.)