From the Mission Field
What Have Prophets Said about Serving Missions?
Prophets both new and old have emphasized the importance of sharing the gospel. Their counsel and teachings can help you in your missionary work.
Prophets have always emphasized the importance of preaching the gospel, echoing the Savior’s call: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). From ancient prophets all the way to President Russell M. Nelson, we learn about the blessings of teaching and sharing Christ’s gospel.
Whether you’re currently serving, considering a mission, or waiting for a call, the words of the prophets can be a compass for you as you labor in the Lord’s vineyard. Here are just some of what prophets have said about sharing the gospel as a missionary:
Isaiah—Publish Peace
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!” (Isaiah 52:7).
Paul—Preach of Jesus Christ
“For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake” (2 Corinthians 4:5).
Alma the Younger—Your Soul Will Be Filled with Joy
“I know that which the Lord hath commanded me, and I glory in it. I do not glory of myself, but I glory in that which the Lord hath commanded me; yea, and this is my glory, that perhaps I may be an instrument in the hands of God to bring some soul to repentance; and this is my joy.
“And behold, when I see many of my brethren truly penitent, and coming to the Lord their God, then is my soul filled with joy” (Alma 29:9–10).
Brigham Young—God Will Help You on Your Way
“I shall be very happy when I can know that … the people on every island and continent, both the high and the low, the ignorant and intelligent, have received the words of eternal life, and have had bestowed upon them the power of the eternal Priesthood of the Son of God. …
“Go forth and preach the Gospel, gain an experience, learn wisdom, and walk humbly before your God, that you may receive the Holy Ghost to guide and direct you, and teach you all things past, present, and to come.
“Go trusting in God, and continue to trust in him, and he will open your way and multiply blessings upon you, and your souls will be satisfied with his goodness.”
Ezra Taft Benson—Hard Work Brings the Spirit
“There is no greater exhilaration or satisfaction than to know, after a hard day of work, that we have done our best.
“I have often said that one of the greatest secrets of missionary work is work! If a missionary works, he will get the Spirit; if he gets the Spirit, he will teach by the Spirit; and if he teaches by the Spirit, he will touch the hearts of the people and he will be happy.”
Thomas S. Monson—It’s OK to Be Overwhelmed
“Missionary work is hard work. Missionary service is demanding and requires long hours of study and preparation, that the missionary himself [or herself] might match the divine message he [or she] proclaims. It is a labor of love but also of sacrifice and devotion to duty. …
“Entering the mission field can sometimes be an overpowering and frightening experience. President Harold B. Lee was talking to me one day concerning those who feel inadequate and are worried when they receive an assignment in the Church. He counseled, ‘Remember, whom the Lord calls, the Lord qualifies.’”
Russell M. Nelson—The Light of Jesus Christ Is Needed Now
“You are each vital to the Lord. He has held you in reserve until now to help gather Israel. Your decision to serve a mission, whether a proselyting or a service mission, will bless you and many others. …
“… The spiritual darkness in the world makes the light of Jesus Christ needed more than ever. Everyone deserves the chance to know about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Every person deserves to know where they can find the hope and peace that ‘[pass] all understanding’ [Philippians 4:7].”
Making the choice to serve a full-time mission is between you and Heavenly Father. As you ponder the prophets’ words, consider how you can be a beacon of Christ’s light. Your unique gifts and willingness to share the gospel can help bring others to the gospel. In a time when so many search for purpose, your efforts to share the Savior’s love and teachings can make a profound—and eternal—difference in someone’s life.