To the Point

How do we live in the world and “lay aside the things of this world”?

The Disciples Whom He Had Chosen, by Casey Childs

The Lord has said, “Thou shalt lay aside the things of this world, and seek for the things of a better” (Doctrine and Covenants 25:10). This doesn’t mean that we ignore our temporal and material needs, but it does mean that we don’t set our hearts on wealth, power, position, or the world’s approval. Here are some principles we have been taught about living in the world:

Put the things of God first. “Seek ye first the kingdom and God, and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). In our hearts and our lives, God’s commandments and our covenants with Him are our priority.

Seek learning. “As you learn about the world around you, learn also about the Savior. … The more you learn, the more you can help build God’s kingdom and influence the world for good” (For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices [2022], 31, 32).

Work. “Work is an important gospel principle. It fosters growth and develops us. … The Lord not only wants us to provide for our families but to be ‘anxiously engaged in a good cause’ [Doctrine and Covenants 58:27]” (“Employment,” Topics and Questions, Gospel Library).