Elder Walter F. Gonzalez: Becoming more powerful priesthood holders

"Just like in the days of old, we can be more powerful priesthood holders by using the Book of Mormon," said Elder Walter F. Gonzalez of the presidency of the Seventy.

Speaking in the priesthood session, he said, "I will never forget my feelings when as a young boy in Uruguay, I read this sacred book for the first time. I did not have to read much in First Nephi to experience such a joy that cannot be expressed with words. It was like the book was permeated with the Spirit of the Lord and made me feel closer to God."

Elder Gonzalez said, "We can turn this sacred book into a best-read and best-applied book in our life. Let me suggest three activities that can help us turn the Book of Mormon into the best-read and applied book, which will empower us today, to become more powerful priesthood holders."

"First, feast upon the words of Christ. … Feasting upon the words of Christ is a unique experience. When we read and look for principles and doctrines that will help us in our daily lives, we will have a renewed enthusiasm."

Second," he said, "Apply in our lives all that we learn about Christ. Reading the Book of Mormon and looking for attributes of Christ is a great edifying experience."

"Third," he continued, "teach the doctrine and principles found in the sacred pages of the Book of Mormon. We can teach anyone from this book. Can you imagine the additional 'convincing power of God' (3 Nephi 28:29) when missionaries and family members quote, read, or repeat by heart the book's very words?"

Elder Gonzalez concluded, "You and I, as part of those future generations spoken about [in the Book of Mormon], can be more powerful priesthood holders by using the Book of Mormon and honoring our priesthood covenants."