Topic

Responsibility

Responsibility is important for a variety of different reasons. God has given us all gifts and talents that can be developed with time and effort. Our talents and abilities are meant to be used for good, and when we follow God’s direction, we can uphold the responsibility we have been given to use our gifts to bless the lives of others. God desires that we take care of His other children. The talents people possess may vary, but the responsibility to do good does not. With our gifts, we have a responsibility to help others and do as much good as we can.

Responsibility is a necessary part of agency, or the ability to choose. Being able to choose is a gift, something we fought for before we came to earth because we knew how valuable it would be. With each choice we make, however, comes the responsibility for the consequences we have caused. When we live the gospel the way God asks us to, we can be responsible for our actions more easily. Satan will often tempt us with the idea that we can do anything we want without any responsibility to be held accountable for our actions. Lynn G. Robbins discusses this idea further in his talk “Be 100 Percent Responsible.”

God has given us responsibilities that come with our knowledge. He trusts us with the responsibility to live the gospel and continue to improve our relationship with Him. He also asks us to share our joy and knowledge of Jesus Christ with other people. Additionally, we are responsible for taking care of those in our stewardship—for example, family members and those we serve in our callings. While responsibility can seem overwhelming, God has promised to help us with all we have to do and reassures us that He will help us when we fall.

Julie L. Valentine | November 2, 2021

We each have a noble responsibility for good, and we should not underestimate the amount of influence we can have if we are intentional.

devotional 2021

Elder Gary E. Stevenson, member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gary E. Stevenson | March 2, 2021

Elder Gary E. Stevenson highlights the heavenly blessings we have received to help us with our divinely appointed responsibilities.

devotional 2021

Patrick Kearon - Presidency of the Seventy

Patrick Kearon | April 25, 2019

Elder Kearon teaches that with the love of our Heavenly Father and our God-given talents, we can establish a more wonderful world.

commencement 2019

Lynn G. Robbins | August 22, 2017

Agency and accountability are paired principles. Being responsible for your actions leads to having control over your life.

devotional 2017

Su Ge | April 21, 2016

To recall my experience, the BYU motto “Go forth to serve” has exerted boundless inspiration, courage, and guidance.

commencement 2016

Cecil O. Samuelson | April 24, 2014

Among the contributions BYU graduates will give to the world, what is required of them by the Lord? It's nothing new: to keep His commandments.

commencement 2014

Sharon G. Samuelson | September 6, 2011

Just as we walk over bridges built by our ancestors, we must build bridges for our descendants. Christ builds the ultimate bridge - between death and life.

devotional 2011

Chris Feinauer | August 11, 2011

As you leave this university, keep wearing the Y. Keep the Spirit of the Y alive through contributing, connecting, and serving.

commencement 2011

Alton L. Thygerson | September 28, 2010

Many people become rescuers by saving lives. Jesus Christ is our most significant rescuer, our Savior and from death and sin.

devotional 2010

David G. Long | January 27, 2009

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

forum 2009

Delora Bertelsen | June 26, 2007

Delora Bertelsen promotes respect and appreciation for all of God's children, and focuses especially on those who foster learning at BYU.

devotional 2007

William H. Baker | July 25, 2006

At times we will learn first and be tried later; at other times the Lord will try us first and then teach us from the trials. But in spite of the sequence, I pray that we will move forward with faith in and love for the Lord—even while not knowing beforehand what lies ahead.

devotional 2006

Earl C. Tingey | April 21, 2005

Earl C. Tingey reminds the graduating class of 2005 that as they go out into the world to serve, they must also take responsibility for their education.

commencement 2005

Marjorie Pay Hinckley | April 11, 2000

Sister Marjorie Pay Hinckley advises recent graduates to take action in all parts of their lives by just doing what needs to be done.

commencement 2000

L. Tom Perry | February 11, 1997

The scriptures make evident the importance that the Lord places in living up to a good name. We carry the namesake of our families and of God Himself.

devotional 1997

President Gordon B. Hinckley, prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gordon B. Hinckley | February 2, 1997

Gordon B. Hinckley speaks of the noble pioneers. The pioneers were people of great faith, of tremendous loyalty, and of unbending integrity.

devotional 1997

Richard G. Scott | March 3, 1996

Richard G. Scott implores listeners to resolutely decide to keep the Lord's standards and live so that the Holy Ghost can inspire all to do what is right.

devotional 1996

Janette C. Hales Beckham | September 3, 1995

Names are important. Our identities are strengthened for the better when we mature spiritually, do good, and take upon Christ's name.

devotional 1995

Ruth E. Brasher | May 30, 1995

Ruth E. Brasher, director of the BYU Honor Code Office, shares insights into the dangers of separating agency from accountability.

devotional 1995

Rex E. Lee | September 15, 1992

Ownership of BYU falls to each of its students. Like the small effort of butterflies that can have drastic effects, you can make a difference here.

devotional 1992

Rex E. Lee | September 12, 1989

President Lee reflects on how the untimely deaths of two close friends, plus his own battle with cancer, have given him a new appreciation for life.

devotional 1989

Hugh W. Pinnock | June 25, 1985

Taking personal responsibility for our actions allows us to experience true freedom. As we develop this trait, we will make better decisions.

devotional 1985

Norma B. Smith | May 6, 1984

As members of Christ’s church, we should be among them that love Him by following His instructions and remembering our worth.

devotional 1984

Jeffrey R. Holland - Mormon Apostle - and Patricia T. Holland

Jeffrey R. and Patricia T. Holland | February 2, 1982

Christ overcame temptation for appetite, glory, and wealth. He did not have a price. His way was inconvenient, and ours will be too if we truly follow Him.

devotional 1982

Robert D. Hales | January 10, 1982

Christ is the only way to eternal life. To become like Him, we must keep His commandments. We need good friends and to be a good friend.

devotional 1982

Dean L. Larsen | March 1, 1981

Our light will shine and we will influence the world for good as we respect the agency of others and have pure intentions.

devotional 1981

N. Eldon Tanner | January 30, 1979

The BYU students who are going forth to serve the world cannot forget that they represent the university and the Church in word and deed.

devotional 1979

Sterling W. Sill | September 24, 1978

God did not go to the trouble of creating the earth and creating us in his own image for us to fail. Our motivations will determine our life's success.

devotional 1978

Dallin H. Oaks—first counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Dallin H. Oaks | September 5, 1978

Where much is given, much is expected, not only in scholastic achievement and developing talents but also in conduct and the way we present ourselves.

devotional 1978

David B. Haight | September 4, 1977

As I look upon this vast audience, I feel as if it must be the finals of the NCAA with BYU playing for the championship. But this is a thrilling sight to see all of you here and to be here in your presence. What a glorious occasion and opportunity for me to be here and to feel of your warmth and spirit and affection this night! Now I pray…

devotional 1977

L. Tom Perry | March 12, 1974

As you seek to serve the Lord, focus less on the position of your calling and more on becoming and offering your best self.

devotional 1974

Ezra Taft Benson - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Ezra Taft Benson | October 25, 1966

No matter how appealing the modern movements toward socialism and communism are, we must defend freedom, which is essential in God's plan.

devotional 1966

Belle S. Spafford | November 8, 1961

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

devotional 1961

David O. McKay - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

David O. McKay | April 15, 1959

President David O. McKay teaches that each age has a responsibility, and ours is to choose truth and defend it fearlessly throughout our entire lives.

devotional 1959

Ezra Taft Benson | October 22, 1954

The responsibilities of citizenship in this great country are ours, and we cannot neglect them. Be the kind of person that makes America a better place.

devotional 1954