It doesn’t say “don’t do this.”
The purpose of the For the Strength of Youth guide is not to give you a “yes” or “no” about every possible choice you might face. “Instead, the Lord is inviting you to live in a higher and holier way—His way,” (page 4).
As Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf put it, “The Lord is not saying, ‘Do whatever you want.’ He is saying, ‘Let God prevail.’”1
It’s an invitation for all of us to shift our mindset. Instead of thinking “what can I get away with?” we can think, “would this help me draw closer to God?”
Consider the truths God has revealed to you about whatever it is you’re thinking about doing. Ask for His direction. Then move forward in a way that you think will help you become more like Him.
Click here to read the full For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices.
Adapted from this “To the Point” article in the June 2023 For the Strength of Youth magazine.
Notes
1. Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Jesus Christ is the Strength of Youth,” Oct. 2022 general conference (Ensignnullor Liahona, Nov. 2022, 11).