Excerpt
“With the gift of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the strength of heaven to help us, we can improve.”
Intro
Some messages arrive when the heart needs reassurance more than instruction. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s talk reminds me that discipleship is not about perfection today — it is about hope for tomorrow. Like the rising of the moon over the temple, light returns even after the darkest moments.
Notes from Elder Holland
Elder Holland teaches that the gospel is meant to inspire progress, not discourage effort. The Lord does not expect immediate perfection. He asks us to keep trying, trusting in the power of the Atonement to help us grow over time.
Perspective (direct quotes)
“First of all, if in the days ahead you not only see limitations in those around you but also find elements in your own life that don’t yet measure up to the messages you have heard this weekend, please don’t be cast down in spirit and don’t give up.”
“The gospel, the Church, and these wonderful semiannual gatherings are intended to give hope and inspiration. They are not intended to discourage you.”
“With the gift of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the strength of heaven to help us, we can improve, and the great thing about the gospel is we get credit for trying, even if we don’t always succeed.”
President George Q. Cannon once taught:
“No matter how serious the trial, how deep the distress, how great the affliction, [God] will never desert us. He never has, and He never will.”
Practice (today, not someday)
Today I will remember that effort matters to God. Progress matters to God. Trying matters to God. I will move forward with faith, even when growth feels slow.
Final Reflection
Hope in the gospel is not based on perfection — it is based on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Tomorrow really can be brighter than today because God is patient with our growth.
Pocket I’m Keeping
“We get credit for trying.”
What I Hear Now (direct quotes)
“Tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”
“He will never desert us.”
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