Wirthlin Joseph Quotes & Sayings

For each human being, time is a necessary resource. It can neither be ignored nor changed. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Being true to one's duty is a mark of true disciples of the Lord and the children of God. Be valiant in your duty. Stay in step. Do not fail in your most important task, that of keeping your second estate. Be true to your duty, for it will bring you to God. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The place to cure most of the ills of society is in the homes of the people. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Expressions of solemn testimony have long been important to the children of God upon the earth. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Kind words not only lift our spirits in the moment they are given, but they can linger with us over the years. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Every person on the earth today lived at one time in heavenly realms. We walked with our Heavenly Father. We knew Him. We heard His voice. We loved Him. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The abundant life is a spiritual life. Too many sit at the banquet table of the gospel of Jesus Christ and merely nibble at the feast placed before them. They go through the motions - attending their meetings perhaps, glancing at scriptures, repeating familiar prayers - but their hearts are far away. If they are honest, they would admit to being more interested in the latest neighborhood rumors, stock market trends, and their favorite TV show than they are in the supernal wonders and sweet ministerings of the Holy Spirit. Do you wish to partake of this living water and experience that divine well springing up within you to everlasting life? Then be not afraid. Believe with all your hearts. Develop an unshakable faith in the Son of God. Let your hearts reach out in earnest prayer. Fill your minds with knowledge of Him. Forsake your weaknesses. Walk in holiness and harmony with the commandments. Drink deeply of the living waters of the gospel of Jesus Christ. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Imagine for a moment the result if everyone were to love one another as Jesus loves his disciples. We would have no bickering, quarreling, strife, or contention in our homes. We would not offend or insult one another either verbally or in any other way. We would not have unnecessary litigation over small matters. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

As with the butterfly, adversity is necessary to build character in people. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The sweet companionship of eternal marriage is one of the greatest blessings God has granted to His children. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

For individuals to become fully active in the Church, they generally must experience a spiritual conversion and a social integration. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Those who stand at the threshold of life always waiting for the right time to change are like the man who stands at the bank of a river waiting for the water to pass so he can cross on dry land. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

At the final day, the Savior will not ask about the nature of our callings. He will not inquire about our material possessions or fame. He will ask if we ministered to the sick, gave food and drink to the hungry, visited those in prison, or gave succor to the weak. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

William McKinley Oswald was my high school football coach. He was a great coach and had a profound influence on my life. But I think he could have learned his method of motivating players from an army drill sergeant. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Our prayers can and should be focused on the practical, everyday struggles of life. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Anything that does not draw us closer to God takes us away from Him. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

I believe that perseverance is vital to success in any endeavor, whether spiritual or temporal, large or small, public or personal ... All significant achievement results largely from perseverance. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Peace is more than a lofty ideal. It is a practical principle that, with conscious effort, can become a normal part of our lives as we deal with matters both large and small. One habit that prevents inner peace is procrastination. It clutters our minds with unfinished business and makes us uneasy until we finish a task and get it out of the way. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The true greatness of a person, in my view, is evident in the way he or she treats those with whom courtesy and kindness are not required. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Desire, burning desire, is basic to achieving anything beyond the ordinary. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The responsibility to do missionary work rests with every member of the Church. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

When we are baptized and confirmed, when brethren are ordained to the priesthood, when we go to the temple and receive our endowment, when we enter into the new and everlasting covenant of eternal marriage - in all these sacred ordinances, we make solemn commitments to keep God's commandments. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Telescopes and microscopes bring to our view the otherwise unseen and unknown. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

We will all rise from the grave. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Great sculptors and artists spend countless hours perfecting their talents. They don't pick up a chisel or a brush and palette, expecting immediate perfection. They understand that they will make many errors as they learn, but they start with the basics, the key fundamentals first. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Today is the day of decision. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Charity can be the outward expression of faith and hope. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

As you overcome adversity in your life, you will become stronger. Then you will be better able to help others -those who are working, in their turn, to find a safe harbor from the storms that rage about them. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

A testimony of the truth of the gospel does not come the same way to all people. Some receive it in a unique, life-changing experience. Others gain a testimony slowly, almost imperceptibly until, one day, they simply know. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The compassion of Christlike friends deeply touches and changes our lives. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Parents should plant deeply the seed of the work ethic into the hearts and habits of their children. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Some feel as though the world is their oyster; others feel as though they were the oyster itself, plucked from the ocean, cracked open, and robbed of all that is precious to them. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

During my life I have heard many sermons on the Resurrection. I can recite the events of that first Easter Sunday. I have marked in my scriptures passages regarding the Resurrection. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Prophets have no other purpose, no other mission except to serve God. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

As society has shifted from an agrarian to an urban structure, the joy and necessity of diligent, hard work have been neglected. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Nephi taught that by clinging to the word of God, as though it be a handrail, we would be able to avoid temptations and not lose our way in darkness. Thus, we would remain on the narrow path. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Learning to endure times of disappointment, suffering, and sorrow is part of our on-the-job training. These experiences, while often difficult to bear at the time, are precisely the kinds of experiences that stretch our understanding, build our character, and increase our compassion for others. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Charity must become a fundamental state of mind and heart that guides us in all we do. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

There has always been discouragement, negativism, and temptation in the world because of Lucifer. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

A certain amount of impatience may be useful to stimulate and motivate us to action. However, I believe that a lack of patience is a major cause of the difficulties and unhappiness in the world today. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Men and women who decide to flirt with adultery just once can become enmeshed in misery and unhappiness for themselves and their precious families. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

My parents taught me to react quickly when temptation comes and to say 'No!' instantly and emphatically. I recommend that same counsel to you. Avoid temptations. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Some carry the burden of bitterness and resentfulness for many years. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The Lord compensates the faithful for every loss. That which is taken away from those who love the Lord will be added unto them in His own way. While it may not come at the time we desire, the faithful will know that every tear today will eventually be returned a hundredfold with tears of rejoicing and gratitude. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Without adversity, the butterfly would never have the strength to achieve its destiny. It would never develop the strength to become something extraordinary. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The Savior encouraged brotherhood. He was not a long-distance leader. He walked and worked with those whom he led. He was not afraid of close friendships. He spent many hours with his disciples, and his relationships with them were intimate. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

You are stronger than you think. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Life will continue on the other side of the veil. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The living prophet and the apostles today are as lighthouses in the storm. Steer towards the light of the restored gospel and the inspired teachings of those who represent the Lord on earth. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The church is not a place where perfect people gather to say perfect things, or have perfect thoughts, or have perfect feelings. The Church is a place where imperfect people gather to provide encouragement, support, and service to each other as we press on in our journey to return to our Heavenly Father. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

God's commandments are not given to limit or punish us. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The Prophet Joseph Smith lived in troubled times. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

We should be patient in developing and strengthening our testimonies. Rather than expecting immediate or spectacular manifestations, though they will come when needed, we should pray for a testimony, study the scriptures, follow the counsel of our prophet and other Church leaders, and live the principles of the gospel. Our testimonies then will grow and mature naturally, perhaps imperceptibly at times, until they become driving forces in our lives. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Each person in the world is different and has their own beautiful sound in the symphony of life. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

What people think and believe and plan are all very important, but what they do is the thing that counts most. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Bookstore operators tell us that the books which head the bestseller list are books on peace and happiness. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

A worldwide web of electronic connections now moves data at ever-increasing speed and volume along what we call the information superhighway. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

I know that each of us has much to do. Sometimes we feel overwhelmed by the tasks we face. But if we keep our priorities in order, we can accomplish all that we should. We can endure to the end regardless of temptations, problems, and challenges. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Note that charity is given only to those who seek it, only to those who earnestly pray for it, only to those who are disciples of Christ. Before we can be filled with this pure love, we must start at the beginning with the first principle of the gospel. We must have "first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ." — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The light from the sun breaks through space, bathing our planet as it encircles the sun with life-giving warmth and light. Without the sun, there could be no life on this planet; it would be forever barren, cold, and dark. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Lucifer is a master at gradual deception. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The consequences of ignoring the Lord and His prophets are certain and often accompanied by great sorrow and regret. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

One morning I remember pulling out a small card and threading it through my typewriter. Among the words that I typed [ ... ] were these: The simple secret is this: put your trust in the Lord, do your best, then leave the rest to Him. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

I agree with Robert Louis Stevenson, who wrote, 'The man who forgets to be thankful has fallen asleep in life'. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The Lord is well aware of our mortality. He knows our weaknesses. He understands the challenges of our everyday lives. He has great empathy for the temptations of earthly appetites and passions. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Let us strive for personal, practical integrity in every endeavor, regardless of how mundane or inconsequential it may seem. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

We know that we are often judged by the company we keep. We know how influential classmates, friends, and other peer groups can be. If any of our companions are prone to be unrighteous in their living, we are better off seeking new associations immediately. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

At a very early age and continuing throughout my life, I have marveled at the beautiful story of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Perseverance means to continue in a given course until we have reached a goal or objective, regardless of obstacles, opposition, and other counterinfluences ... Perseverance is a positive, active characteristic ... It gives us hope by helping us realize that the righteous suffer no failure except in giving up and no longer trying. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Indeed, the world is a better place because there was such a leader as President Gordon B. Hinckley. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Average leaders inspire people to punch a time clock. Great leaders inspire industry and passion. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

I love the German and the Swiss people for their many fine traits of character. I love their language that is so exacting and yet so expressive. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

You can get people to work by using threats or by promising rewards. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The rewards of integrity are immeasurable. One is the indescribable inner peace and serenity that come from knowing we are doing what is right; another is an absence of the guilt and anxiety that accompany sin. Another reward of integrity is the confidence it can give us in approaching God. When virtue garnishes our thoughts unceasingly, our confidence is strong in the presence of God. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

There is no substitute for kindness in the home. This lesson I learned from my father. He always listened to my mother's advice. As a result, he was a better, wiser, and kinder man. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Those who make happiness the chief objective of life are bound to fail, for happiness is a by-product rather than an end in itself. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The gospel of Jesus Christ is more enduring than fame, more precious than riches, more to be desired than happiness. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Financial problems cause distress and loss of self-respect. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Our Heavenly Father loves each one of us and understands that this process of climbing higher takes preparation, time, and commitment. He understands that we will make mistakes at times, that we will stumble, that we will become discouraged and perhaps even wish to give up and say to ourselves it is not worth the struggle. We know it is worth the effort, for the prize, which is eternal life, is "the greatest of all the gifts of God." And to qualify, we must take one step after another and keep going to gain the spiritual heights we aspire to reach. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Yes, the fullness of the gospel is a pearl of great price worth any effort. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Brothers and sisters, if only we had more compassion for those who are different from us, it would lighten many of the problems and sorrows in the world today. It would certainly make our families and the Church a more hallowed and heavenly place. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

'Success' is a seductive word. Thousands of books have been written on the subject. They promise money, freedom, leisure, and luxury. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

No matter our age, circumstances, or abilities, each one of us can create something remarkable of his life. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

To me, integrity means always doing what is right and good, regardless of the immediate consequences. It means being righteous from the very depth of our soul, not only in our actions but, more importantly, in our thoughts and in our hearts. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Fasting, coupled with mighty prayer, is powerful. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The people who misuse the Sabbath lose the blessings of spiritual food and growth promised to those who keep this commandment. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Another activity that can detract us from the proper way is watching television excessively or viewing improper movies. While fine productions on these media are uplifting and entertaining, we need to be very selective in choosing what we see and how much of our time such an activity deserves. Our precious time must not be diverted to the sideline attractions of vulgar language, immoral conduct, pornography, and violence. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Wayward, disobedient children cause their parents grief and anxiety. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

How can we love days that are filled with sorrow? We can't - at least not in the moment. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Born of a noble father and a saintly mother, President Hinckley learned as a young boy the truths of the restored gospel from his faithful parents. He came to respect deeply and value highly his pioneer heritage. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Sometimes we should express our gratitude for the small and simple things like the scent of the rain, the taste of your favorite food, or the sound of a loved one's voice. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Every home is a house of learning either for good or otherwise. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

There is within each of us a divine spark of greatness. Who knows of what we are capable if we only try? — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Even when we make mistakes, we hope others will love us in spite of our shortcomings - even if we don't deserve it. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Experience teaches that when the will and imagination are in conflict, the imagination usually wins. What we imagine may defeat our reason and make us slaves to what we taste, see, hear, smell, and feel in the mind's eye. The body is indeed the servant of the mind. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Many years ago, large packs of wolves roamed the countryside in Ukraine, making travel in that part of the world very dangerous. These wolf packs were fearless. They were not intimidated by people nor by any of the weapons available at that time. The only thing that seemed to frighten them was fire. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

I don't know whether we Church members fully appreciate the Book of Mormon, one of our sacred scriptures, as we really should. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

Nets are generally defined as devices for capturing something. In a more narrow but more important sense, we might define a net as anything that entices or prevents us from following the call of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

The more often we see the things around us - even the beautiful and wonderful things - the more they become invisible to us. That is why we often take for granted the beauty of this world: the flowers, the trees, the birds, the clouds - even those we love. Because we see things so often, we see them less and less. — Joseph B. Wirthlin

We observe that in the scriptures, fasting almost always is linked with prayer. Without prayer, fasting is not complete fasting; it's simply going hungry. — Joseph B. Wirthlin