President Henry B. Eyring: 'Act in all diligence'

Diligence is necessary for a lifetime of faithful priesthood service, said President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency, during the priesthood session of general conference.

Drawing from recent personal experiences and the new "Duty to God" booklet for Aaronic Priesthood holders, President Eyring spoke of the pattern of diligence needed for priesthood service.

President Eyring spoke of a newly ordained deacon passing the sacrament for the first time, as well as a man who had served in many capacities over many years, including as a bishop twice.

Both experiences show how diligence in the Priesthood is necessary, encouraging Priesthood holders to learn what the Lord expects of them, make plans to do it, act on the plan with diligence and then share with others how the experience changed the individual and blessed others.

"You have seen such examples of great priesthood servants," he said. "Tonight I will try to tell you about what I have learned about them. It begins with their learning to know whose service they are in and for what purpose. When that goes down into their hearts, it makes all the difference."

Speaking directly to the young men of the Aaronic Priesthood, President Eyring spoke of developing diligence as individuals feel the magnitude of the trust God has placed in them. Quoting from the "Duty to God" booklet, he said: "Heavenly Father has great trust and confidence in you and has an important mission for you to fulfill. He will help you as you turn to Him in prayer. Listen for the promptings of the Spirit. Obey the commandments and keep the covenants that you have made."

Looking to John the Baptist as an example, President Eyring spoke of the importance of knowing who calls priesthood leaders and for what purpose they serve.

"Your priesthood calls allow you to offer the sacrament of the Lord's Supper to the members of His Church today," he said. "That is the power the Savior granted to the Twelve Apostles in His mortal ministry. He did it again when He called twelve disciples after His Resurrection to lead His Church. …

"As you remember Him, you will be determined to perform that service, as nearly as you can, as well and faithfully as He did," he said. "That can become a pattern in your life that will increase your power to be diligent in every priesthood service for which the Lord is preparing you and to which He will call you.