Knowledge of History Can Help Us Change

We study our history because it helps us change. Ultimately, the value of history is not so much in its dates, times, and places. It is valuable because it teaches us the principles, purposes, and patterns we are to follow, it helps us know who we are and what we are to do, and it unites us in strengthening the homes of Zion and building the kingdom of God on the earth. Relief Society, when it operates in an inspired way, can replace fear, doubt, and selfishness with faith, hope, and charity. As we move the Lord's work forward, the history of Relief Society will continue to be written by faithful sisters throughout the world. The Lord is strengthening Relief Society in the living present and preparing a glorious future for His daughters.

I bear you my testimony of the reality of our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Through the Prophet Joseph Smith, the gospel, the good news of our identity and purpose, was restored to the earth. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Notes

1. 2 Peter 2:1.

2. 2 Nephi 28:20–22.

3. 2 Timothy 3:6.

4. Joshua 24:23.

5. Doctrine and Covenants 63:58.

6. Doctrine and Covenants 1:17.

7. Doctrine and Covenants 25:1.

8. 2 Nephi 9:51.

9. See Titus 2:4–5.

10. See 3 Nephi 13:4.