“Brim with Joy” (Alma 26:11) | Neal A. Maxwell | January 1996
Jan 18, 2023
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Neal A. Maxwell, a renowned religious leader and author, discusses the profound joy that comes from living the gospel. He emphasizes that focusing solely on commandments can blind us to God's blessings. Through personal anecdotes, he illustrates that true happiness stems from faith and moral integrity. Maxwell highlights the importance of relationships and community, while drawing connections to the teachings of Jesus Christ. He urges listeners to find strength and joy in righteousness, even amid life’s challenges.
Recognizing the divine purpose behind our intertwined relationships fosters deeper connections and mutual support in our lives.
True happiness arises from obedience to God’s commandments, contrasting with the fleeting nature of external pleasures and highlighting lasting joy.
Deep dives
Interconnections of Lives
The concept of interconnections among individuals is emphasized, highlighting how relationships in our lives are often intertwined by divine design. This idea is illustrated through personal anecdotes about the speaker's relationships with figures such as President Bateman and Elder Eyring, showing the value of friendships that resume over time. Such intersecting lives not only create opportunities for friendship but also serve as a framework to learn from and support one another. With the understanding that these connections are never mere coincidence, the speaker encourages recognizing the divine purpose behind these relationships.
Joy in Gospel Living
Gospel living is presented as a source of profound joy and happiness, contrasting it with the fleeting nature of terrestrial pleasures. The speaker points out that while external objectives can bring temporary satisfaction, true happiness stems from obedience to God’s commandments, which align with the pursuit of a more meaningful life. Personal examples, such as the devastation faced by a mother with cancer and her anticipation of life beyond, illustrate the deep joy rooted in faith despite life's adversities. The message reinforces that God desires his children to find joy, positioning the plan of salvation as a framework for achieving lasting happiness.
The Enduring Nature of True Joy
The distinction between mere pleasure and lasting joy is highlighted, emphasizing that joy transcends temporal moments of satisfaction. While pleasure might feed on itself and quickly fade, joy is connected to deeper values and meaningful experiences such as forgiveness and connection with others. The speaker cautions against being swayed by fleeting popular opinions, encouraging a focus on eternal principles that foster true fulfillment. By reflecting on spiritual teachings, individuals can cultivate a lasting joy that enhances their daily lives and builds stronger connections with those around them.
Finding Perspective Through the Gospel
The gospel provides a lens through which individuals can gain a broader and deeper perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and consideration for others. By shifting focus away from personal desires, one can appreciate the richness of life and the significance of interactions with others, described as 'splendid strangers'. The speaker encourages giving specific commendations to uplift those around us, nurturing their self-esteem and fostering a sense of belonging. This perspective helps to cultivate joy and strengthens the bonds among individuals, emphasizing that happiness flourishes in a community rooted in faith and love.
If we focus only on commandments, we miss recognizing the blessings and incredible joy that comes from living the gospel. Click or tap here to view the speech page on our website.