In a powerful message delivered at Brigham Young University, President Dallin H. Oaks shared crucial insights aimed at empowering students to navigate their doubts and concerns. He emphasized four key strategies: deepening faith in Christ, cultivating humility, seeking support from others, and practicing patience.
This address marked President Oaks' first public engagement since his recent appointment as the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He candidly acknowledged the challenges believers face today, stating that the adversary is skilled at misleading individuals by obscuring the truth. Without the guidance of the Holy Ghost, he warned, church members risk being led astray.
"To thrive spiritually, it’s essential to maintain a continuous relationship with the Holy Ghost," President Oaks advised. "We are surrounded by an overwhelming amount of speculation and misinformation on various platforms, including podcasts and social media. Some may question or reject church doctrines without fully understanding them. It's important not to let false narratives sway your beliefs. Instead, discuss your questions with knowledgeable and faithful friends, and bring your concerns to the Lord for clarity."
BYU President Shane Reese expressed his joy at seeing a full Marriott Center, filled with students eager to hear insights from a prophet of God.
"It’s wonderful to be here," President Oaks remarked, recalling his history with BYU, where he served as president starting in 1971 and celebrated the university's centennial. Now, as BYU reaches its 150th anniversary, he believes it is destined to fulfill the aspirations set forth by past and present prophets.
"I truly believe that Brigham Young University is on a path to becoming what many prophets envisioned. With the dedication and leadership present in this community, BYU is poised to become a great institution of learning, aligned with divine principles rather than worldly standards," he stated passionately.
Although his address was primarily directed at the students of BYU, President Oaks made it clear that his message resonates universally with anyone committed to following prophetic guidance.
He further noted that there is no inherent conflict between knowledge acquired through spiritual means and that gained through scientific exploration. God encourages us to learn through both avenues.
"Placing trust in God, both in what we understand and what remains uncertain, serves as a vital safeguard against doubts rooted in misconceptions rather than divine revelations," he explained.
Addressing the often lengthy process of reconciling doubts and the sometimes conflicting realms of scientific understanding and religious teachings, President Oaks encouraged students to adhere to the first Article of Faith and to be active in service while they grapple with these challenges.
"Each of us is a work in progress, progressing along what President Russell M. Nelson referred to as the covenant path. It’s essential to extend patience to one another and occasionally to ourselves during this journey," he remarked.
Having been sustained as the 18th president of the church on October 14, succeeding President Nelson, President Oaks reflected on the weight of responsibility he felt shortly after President Nelson's passing. He expressed gratitude for the prayers of church members, acknowledging that everyone benefits from the uplifting support of others.
"As your leader, I seek to understand and pray for what our Heavenly Father desires for each of us: to be active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as we advance along the covenant path toward eternal life," he conveyed earnestly.
Highlighting the importance of humility, President Oaks described it as a "master virtue" that facilitates the learning of additional virtues.
"Humility is among the powerful commandments guiding us in our earthly journeys," he added.
He urged students to remain focused and warned against distractions, particularly concerning former missionaries and youth who have distanced themselves from church teachings, specifically the teachings surrounding marriage and family.
"The decline in faith and activity among some individuals within the restored church raises significant concern for your prophet leaders. We love you—young and old, men and women alike—and so does the Lord. God is unwavering in His loving pursuit of each individual. Keep the commandments and honor the covenants many of you have made; these will guide you along the covenant path. Never allow secular knowledge to limit your potential," President Oaks cautioned.
