{"id":3075,"date":"2008-09-30T16:32:41","date_gmt":"2008-09-30T22:32:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/speeches.byu.edu\/?p=1933"},"modified":"2021-12-14T09:25:34","modified_gmt":"2021-12-14T16:25:34","slug":"just-case-someone-asks-will-ready","status":"publish","type":"speech","link":"https:\/\/speeches.byu.edu\/talks\/robert-r-steuer\/just-case-someone-asks-will-ready\/","title":{"rendered":"Just in Case Someone Asks, I Will Be Ready"},"content":{"rendered":"

Good morning, brothers and sisters. My wife and I are greatly honored to be with you enthusiastic students at this wonderful university. I have titled my message \u201cJust in Case Someone Asks, I Will Be Ready.\u201d<\/p>\n

As a teenager I found a simple thought that had guided Abraham Lincoln\u2019s life. President Lincoln was asked how he was able to become the president of the United States. His self-effacing answer was, \u201cI kept preparing myself just in case.\u201d1<\/sup> This down-to-earth phrase inspired me, and I began looking for ways that could prepare me to be ready for the future.<\/p>\n

For example, as a young missionary in Brazil, I decided to learn to speak and read Portuguese 100 percent. Returning home from my mission, I didn\u2019t think I would be using Portuguese again. But two years later I took the medical school entrance exam, and, lo and behold, my Portuguese was extremely helpful because Portuguese is a strongly influenced Latin-based language\u2014as are many medical terms. Twenty years later I returned to S\u00e3o Paulo, Brazil, with my family as a mission president, and 35 years after that original decision, my wife and I returned to serve in the Area Presidency in the north of Brazil. Even today the joy of speaking another language without having to interpret word for word in my mind is a mystery and a blessing.<\/p>\n

Another example: I, like many other Church members listening to Elder Neal A. Maxwell\u2019s talks, noted that he would regularly cite from John Bartlett\u2019s Familiar Quotations.<\/i> So I started to read Bartlett\u2019s Familiar Quotations<\/i> to be prepared just in case someone asked me<\/i> to give a talk in church.<\/p>\n

Thomas Edison said, \u201cOpportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.\u201d2<\/sup> Likewise, Benjamin Disraeli said, \u201cThe great secret of success in life is for a man to be ready when his opportunity comes.\u201d3<\/sup> President Henry B. Eyring has often recalled important counsel his father gave him. That counsel was, \u201cHal, .\u00a0.\u00a0. you ought to find something that you love so much that when you don\u2019t have to think about anything, that\u2019s what you think about.\u201d4<\/sup> For me that means we will be prepared for inspiration on a specific topic if we have been seriously contemplating it. Some, on the other hand, may conclude that it is too hard to always be preparing or to do such focused thinking. But doing hard things builds confidence and strengthens character. We learn much from those who lean hard against us.<\/p>\n

To prepare just in case someone asks becomes even more important as the world becomes more complex. One approach in preparing ourselves is to simplify and find the \u201ckernel\u201d truths and thoughts. A \u201ckernel operator\u201d in mathematics transforms the original unwieldy and perhaps confusing problem into an easier solution. In computer technology the kernel is the central component of most operating systems. It is the core or nucleus that makes things work. In medicine this same key concept is incorporated in the word pathognomonic.<\/i> A pathognomonic sign is a particular sign whose presence means that beyond any doubt a particular disease is present. For example, if so-called Koplik\u2019s spots are present in the mouth, a doctor\u2019s diagnosis of measles is certain. This is also similar to the well-known mathematical statement of proof: If and only if<\/i> the necessary and sufficient condition A is met; then<\/i> condition B is true.<\/p>\n

To prepare and simplify our lives is like finding those kernel operators, determining the necessary and sufficient conditions or discovering the pathognomonic signs so we can have confidence in our actions and do the right things for the right reasons. We know the scriptures are very clear about certain laws, bounds, and conditions as well: \u201cAnd unto every kingdom is given a law; and unto every law there are certain bounds also and conditions.\u201d5<\/sup> Also, \u201cThere is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated.\u201d6<\/sup><\/p>\n

Embracing key scriptures and doctrines can help us simplify and prepare for life\u2019s important decisions. The words God uses in the scriptures and the words of the living prophets will help us find our way, especially today.<\/p>\n

One such kernel scripture comes from the words of the prophet Micah and gives great strength and clarity of direction. In Micah 6:6\u20138<\/a> we read:<\/p>\n

Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?<\/i><\/p>\n

Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?<\/i><\/p>\n

He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy\u00a0God?<\/i><\/p>\n

The Lord tells us what is good and what pleases Him.7<\/sup> Certainly a core message here teaches us \u201cto do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.\u201d Note that the Lord gives us only three things to remember; this kernel, therefore, simplifies our direction and gives great clarity to our actions.<\/p>\n

First,<\/b> we notice that the Lord requires<\/i> us to do justly. The Old Testament Hebrew word for just<\/i> means to do right,8<\/sup> to do righteousness, or to \u201chave a . . . just weight\u201d9<\/sup> or balance10<\/sup> when measuring something.11<\/sup> In today\u2019s vernacular, to do justly may also mean to be fair in our treatment of one another. In Portuguese, for example, the words just<\/i> and fair<\/i> are the same word: justo.<\/i> Doing \u201cthat which [is] right in the sight of the Lord\u201d12<\/sup> helps us become a just\u00a0person.<\/p>\n

A just man\u2019s character, how he thinks and how he desires to learn all that he can, is described in Proverbs, chapter 9: \u201cGive instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in\u00a0learning.\u201d13<\/sup><\/p>\n

We recall Elder David A. Bednar\u2019s recent comment: \u201cLearning to love learning is central to the gospel of Jesus Christ.\u201d14<\/sup><\/a> Hence, the things we put into our soul mold our unique character and individual identity. For all of our efforts in learning the truth and doing \u201cthat which [is] right in the sight of the Lord,\u201d the Lord promises this wonderful blessing:<\/p>\n

And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his<\/i> diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come.<\/i>15<\/sup><\/p>\n

The end result and blessings of being just are worth every effort. As we read in section 76 of the Doctrine and Covenants, the just \u201cshall have part in the first resurrection.\u201d16<\/sup><\/p>\n

[They] are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise.\u00a0.\u00a0.\u00a0.<\/i><\/p>\n

They are . . . given all things.<\/i><\/p>\n

They . . . have received of his fulness, and of his\u00a0glory. . . .<\/i><\/p>\n

Wherefore, . . . they are gods, even the sons of\u00a0God. . . .<\/i><\/p>\n

[And] these shall dwell in the presence of God and his Christ forever and ever.<\/i>17<\/sup><\/p>\n

Second,<\/b> as we saw in Micah 6:8<\/a>, the Lord requires<\/i> us \u201cto love mercy.\u201d Mercy<\/i> from the Old Testament Hebrew word has the connotation of gentleness, kindliness, grace, forgiveness, and compassion upon anyone.18<\/sup> These are attributes of God. Certainly we desire God\u2019s mercy toward us and are happy, like Enoch, to know that \u201cmercy shall go before [His] face and have no end.\u201d19<\/sup> But the Lord also gives to us the commandment \u201cBe ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful\u201d20<\/sup> and tells us, \u201cBlessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.\u201d21<\/sup><\/p>\n

Daily life seems to teach us that the foundation and enabling power for doing justly comes from a heart full of compassion. Notice the Savior\u2019s instruction to the Nephites: \u201cWhat manner of men ought ye to be? Verily . . . , even as I am.\u201d22<\/sup> These words came after<\/i> the Lord had taught the principles of compassion, grace, and mercy. The Lord encourages us to rely on His grace, saying:<\/p>\n

My grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me;<\/i> [now notice the \u201cnecessary and sufficient\u201d condition He gives us] for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.<\/i>23<\/sup><\/p>\n

Third,<\/b> we are told in Micah 6:8 that the Lord requires<\/i> us \u201cto walk humbly with . . . God.\u201d The Old Testament Hebrew word humble<\/i> connotes to bow down, to bow our heads, or \u201cto be low in situation.\u201d24<\/sup> We recall Enoch feeling overwhelmed with the Lord\u2019s command to call his people to repentance: \u201cAnd when Enoch had heard these words, he bowed himself to the earth, before the Lord.\u201d25<\/sup> Enoch prostrated himself before the Lord; then he was ready for the Lord\u2019s instruction. It seems very significant that when we bow our heads in prayer, we also get ourselves ready for the Lord\u2019s instruction to our hearts and minds.<\/p>\n

There are many things that cause us to \u201cbow our head,\u201d humbling us every day. At times we may actually control situations. For example, an engineer controls the construction of a bridge or building; a doctor controls a surgical procedure\u2014both see positive outcomes. They may conclude that their skill guaranteed the outcome. But at other times we experience circumstances in our lives seemingly beyond our control, such as getting a bad case of the flu on the day of our biggest final exam or our car breaking down on the way to an important interview. The unexpected seemingly occurs at the worst possible time.<\/p>\n

Many in the world conclude that because of this apparent randomness, no one is in control\u2014and, further, that no one can know the future. But the scriptures and the prophets affirm that God is not only master of the universe but \u201cis in the details\u201d26<\/sup> and \u201cknow[s] the end from the beginning.\u201d27<\/sup> He \u201cknoweth all things, for all things are present before [His] eyes.\u201d28<\/sup> It has been said, \u201cThe great act of faith is when man decides that he is not God.\u201d29<\/sup> When we so decide and accept the limits of our external control, we are powerfully sustained by faith in God. We trust His timing and have confidence in His plan.<\/p>\n

Elder Neal A. Maxwell observed: \u201cBecause we are eternal beings, time is not our natural dimension. . . . Life is so designed that we constantly feel time . . . and its prickly presence.\u201d30<\/sup><\/p>\n

We feel this \u201cprickly presence\u201d when unexpected, undesired circumstances irritate us; yet it is those events that mold our character. Perhaps the difficult situations in our lives teach us what it is that we may truly control: ourselves, our thoughts, our words, our deeds,31<\/sup> and our reaction to life\u2019s unexpected events. President James E. Faust reminded us, \u201cIt\u2019s not so much what happens to us but how we deal with what happens to us.\u201d32<\/sup> Recognizing our personal responsibility and exercising self-control make repentance possible and strengthen our character. Each day tests how we will react to unexpected circumstances, for the same set of circumstances can bring either resentment or gratitude.<\/p>\n

Another test may be how we react when those who don\u2019t live God\u2019s commandments seem to get ahead in the world while we, trying very hard to serve the Lord, don\u2019t seem to have much outward success. But in 3 Nephi, chapter 24, the Lord reorients us, saying:<\/p>\n

Your words have been stout against me, saith the Lord. Yet ye say: What have we spoken against thee?<\/i><\/p>\n

Ye have said: It is vain to serve God, and what doth it profit that we have kept his ordinances and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of\u00a0Hosts?<\/i><\/p>\n

And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.<\/i><\/p>\n

Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another, and the Lord hearkened and heard; and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name.<\/i><\/p>\n

And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.<\/i>33<\/sup><\/p>\n

Hence, even though we may set goals, establish procedures, make plans, and act nobly, we may not control the immediate results. We must continue, however, to seek the\u00a0good, establish the right, and walk humbly in the full faith that God guarantees<\/i> the just and merciful outcome.<\/p>\n

The courage to vigorously move ahead thusly was echoed by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow:<\/p>\n

The heights by great men reached and kept<\/i><\/p>\n

Were not attained by sudden flight,<\/i><\/p>\n

But they, while their companions slept,<\/i><\/p>\n

Were toiling upward in the night.<\/i>34<\/sup><\/p>\n

Or, as stated simply by President Harold B. Lee, \u201cIt is the pursuit of easy things that makes men weak.\u201d35<\/sup> The pursuit of hard things makes men strong.<\/p>\n

A key scripture from the Book of Mormon can help in our personal preparation: \u201cFor every man receiveth wages of him whom he listeth to obey.\u201d36<\/sup> This scripture is pointing to the fact that the master to whom we incline will be the one who will reward us\u2014either we incline to the Savior, who will grant us eternal life, or we lean toward Satan, from whom we will receive spiritual death.37<\/sup><\/p>\n

We recognize the verb list<\/i> means to tilt, incline, or move off center just a little bit. It is like when we slightly move off center in a canoe. The canoe quickly lists and finally tips us overboard.38<\/sup> Listing<\/i> may also connote leaning first to one side and then leaning to the other side. We know the result of rocking back and forth in a canoe\u2014overboard we go again! The Apostle James wisely taught, \u201cA double minded man is unstable in all his ways.\u201d39<\/sup><\/p>\n

Similarly, the Lord said to John the Revelator:<\/p>\n

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.<\/i><\/p>\n

So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.<\/i>40<\/sup><\/p>\n

Listing<\/i> may also suggest being carried away\u00a0on the subtle \u201cever learning\u201d41<\/sup> breeze. The Apostle Paul described our day as follows: \u201cIn the last days . . . men shall be lovers of their own selves, . . . ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.\u201d42<\/sup><\/p>\n

Ever learning may be interesting, but we cannot sample from every intriguing corner of life. We are reminded: \u201cIt is not a matter of if<\/i> [we will accept divine truth]. It is a matter of when.<\/i>\u201d43<\/sup> We are told in Philippians that \u201cevery knee should bow . . . and . . . every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.\u201d44<\/sup><\/p>\n

At times we can\u2019t discern whether we are tilting or not. Hence we need guides\u2014especially the Holy Ghost\u2014to point out the slight adjustments we need to make in our lives as we begin to tip or list; thusly, we do not waste time and can more safely reach our ultimate goal. The Book of Mormon prophet Jacob counseled those who \u201care pure in heart\u201d to \u201clook unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, . . . and receive the pleasing word of God, and feast upon his love; for ye\u00a0may, if your minds are firm, forever.\u201d45<\/sup><\/p>\n

Mahatma Gandhi gave some salient guide points as well. He said sin is the following:<\/p>\n