Excerpt
Many aren’t in transgression—they’re in diversion. The world tugs; disciples choose differently. My notes and how I’ll apply them this week.
Intro
Elder Neal A. Maxwell warns that diversion wastes “the days of [our] probation.” God’s plan isn’t pleasure—it’s happiness. The difference is discipleship.
Straight line (what he’s saying)
• The lures are old; the amplification is new—tech, media, hype.
• Diversion builds “personalized prisons”: “of whom a man is overcome…”
• Mortal honors are transient—“they have their reward.”
• Remedies: Holy Ghost, family, worship/prayer/scripture, wise friends, Joseph-in-Egypt reflex (flee).
• “Far country” is measured by fidelity, not miles—return is possible; resilience is covenant DNA.
• God prizes who we become more than rank—our real résumé is ourselves.
• See things as they really are/will be; give glory to God.
Final reflection
My risk isn’t rebellion; it’s drift—scrolls, refreshes, small hungers for applause. Diversion is bondage with nicer branding.
Pocket I’m keeping
• Access the Spirit first (scripture, prayer, sacrament), then apps.
• Family first—real talk over parallel scrolling.
• Choose friends/inputs that aim at Zion.
• Flee fast; repent resiliently.
• Measure worth by being (meek, patient, submissive), not spotlight.
What I hear now
Say “stand aside” to the world. Post the image, close the tab, sit with gratitude. The moon keeps rising; I don’t need every notification to matter. Souls > stars > stats.
Link to the talk
“The Tugs and Pulls of the World” — Neal A. Maxwell.
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