In the Path of Their Duty

Recognizing the Faithful Pioneers

Elder Bednar pays tribute to the pioneers who traversed challenging terrains to settle communities and establish the Church. He emphasizes the importance of their faith, dedication, and resilience.

They of the last wagon pressed forward, worn and tired, footsore, sometimes almost disheartened, borne up by their faith that God loved them, that the restored gospel was true, and that the Lord led and directed the Brethren out in front.

To these humble souls, great in faith, great in work, great in righteous living, great in fashioning our priceless heritage, I humbly render my love, my respect, my reverent homage.

• The pioneers showed great faith and resilience in the face of challenges.
• Their efforts laid the foundation for the Church and are a priceless heritage.

• Think of a time when you faced a significant challenge in your life. How did your faith help you overcome it?
• Are there examples of pioneer-like faith and resilience in your own family history? How have these examples inspired you?

Being "No Less Serviceable"

Elder Bednar acknowledges the countless Church members who serve diligently and faithfully without seeking public acknowledgment or acclaim. He encourages members to continue serving faithfully and quietly.

In other words, even though Helaman was not as noticeable or conspicuous as Moroni, he was as serviceable; that is, he was as helpful or useful as Moroni.

Most of the best people who ever lived weren’t very famous either. Serve and grow, faithfully and quietly.

• Even if our service is not publicly acknowledged, it is valuable and important.
• We should strive to be "no less serviceable" in our own spheres of influence.

• Reflect on a time when you served quietly without seeking recognition. How did this experience impact your understanding of service?
• Can you think of someone in your life who embodies the principle of being "no less serviceable"? How have they influenced you?

Pressing Forward "In the Path of Their Duty"

Elder Bednar describes various examples of faithful members who are pressing forward "in the path of their duty". He highlights their faith, commitment, and service in various aspects of Church and family life.

The phrase "in the path of their duty" describes discerning brothers and sisters who look for and sit next to people who are alone in Church meetings and in a variety of other settings.

The phrase "in the path of their duty" describes spouses and children who support a companion, parent, or child who serves in a leadership position in the Lord’s restored Church.

The phrase "in the path of their duty" describes individuals who, having turned away from God, humbly are re-turning to Him once again, repenting of their sins, and seeking the cleansing and healing power of the Savior’s Atonement.

• Being "in the path of their duty" involves seeking out and comforting those in need.
• Supporting family members in Church service is a significant duty.
• Repenting and returning to God is a crucial part of our duty.

• Can you recall a time when you reached out to someone who was alone at a Church meeting? How did this experience impact you and the person you reached out to?
• Have you had the experience of supporting a family member in a Church leadership position? How did this experience enrich your understanding of service?
• Reflect on a time when you had to repent and return to God. How has this experience shaped your spiritual journey?

Promised Blessings and Testimony

Elder Bednar testifies of the blessings promised to those who endure valiantly for the gospel of Jesus Christ. He expresses his joy and certainty in the promises of Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son.

And as the Lord has promised, "all thrones and dominions, principalities and powers, shall be revealed and set forth upon all who have endured valiantly for the gospel of Jesus Christ."

I joyfully witness that Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son live and Their promises are sure, in the sacred name of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen.

• The Lord has promised great blessings to those who endure valiantly for the gospel of Jesus Christ.
• Elder Bednar joyfully witnesses of the reality of Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son and the certainty of Their promises.

• Reflect on a time when you experienced the blessings of enduring valiantly for the gospel. How did this experience strengthen your testimony?
• Can you recall a time when the promises of Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son were fulfilled in your life? How did this experience impact your faith?