41 replies to this topic

[The Nehor]

mercyngrace, on 30 April 2012 - 09:59 AM, said:

There is an older sister I know who loudly makes her feelings known about every perceived misstep of her church leaders. I pretty much watch her as an example to avoid (sad but true). Still, if the issue matters, there ought to be a reasonable way to address it without causing or giving offense. And if the one offering counsel is wrong, then the roles may end up being reversed as the conversation proceeds but the same conscientious and charitable approach should be employed.

That's not offering counsel since she is telling everyone. We have a word for that: murmuring and the scriptures make it clear murmurers go to hell.

[Carborendum]

I just had an interesting thought about this topic.

For those of you who have seen the DVD "17 Miracles", help me with my memory of people's names.

1) The story centered around one man who asserted that there were dangers & difficulties ahead due to the weather/season.  They should NOT proceed.
2) The Priesthood leadership at the time called him to repentance for not having enough faith.
3) After he had voiced his opinion, and was called to repentance, he chose to repent that his words may have caused any issues.
4) That leader who called him to repentance pointed out that staying in place wasn't an option either.  The people didn't have the supplies nor money to buy enough food for the entire winter.  No towns within hundreds of miles were large enough to give work or supplies to a group that large.
5) Later, that same leader found the treacherous frozen rivers and miles of snow-covered landscape across jagged terrain to challenge his own faith, saying,"You have every reason to throw this back in my face."  The main character declined to do so.

Even though he was absolutely right, even though he gave this warning out of careful consideration, even though he did it in humility, even though he was simply doing what he had been asked to do (give his opinion) he was still called to repentance for essentially causing dissension in the ranks.

I don't think what you have in mind will cause much dissension.  But even if you are 100% right, polite, humble, and hones, there will be those that do not appreciate your message.