My dear friends of BYU-Idaho, Kathy and I are so grateful to be here with you. We are always lifted by your goodness and the spirit you bring to these devotionals.
We love President and Sister Meredith. We have known Sister Jennifer Meredith since she was a teenager in our stake in Florida. She has always had the beautiful spiritual light that you feel from her here. Elder Meredith has been a remarkable leader in the Church for many years. I must say, however, that BYU-Idaho date nights have brought out a side of him I didn’t know. His dancing talent has come alive at BYU-Idaho.
I had determined some time ago what I would speak to you about tonight. However, my remarks completely changed when, 12 days ago, the Lord’s Prophet and President of the Church, Dallin H. Oaks, spoke at BYU. I am certain that many of you were watching that day or have seen or read his message since a week ago last Tuesday. I have felt deeply during the past week that the message I had prepared to give to you tonight should be put aside and that the important words that the prophet spoke should be our primary focus. It is my prayer that you will seek the Lord’s guidance in even better understanding His words through His prophet.
You will remember that President Oaks first spoke of the very real mantle he has felt since the passing of President Russell M. Nelson. As a member of the Quorum of the Twelve and as one who has known President Oaks for many decades, I have witnessed with my own eyes the mantle that has come to him. I testify that the Lord has blessed him, is blessing him, inspiring him, and revealing his will to him. He is the prophet of God!
Listening to President Oaks can lift our souls, but taking deliberate steps to follow his counsel can change our lives. I pray that in the short time we have together this evening that our spiritual understanding of what he shared with us will be enlarged and your feeling of urgency in following the counsel of our prophet will be strengthened.
President Oaks began one part of his message by saying, “I feel to emphasize the warning President Russell M. Nelson issued us.” [1] This warning was given in April 2018, President Nelson’s first general conference address after becoming the President of the Church. He spoke of the condition of our world with the very solemn warning that was repeated by President Oaks 12 days ago (many of you know the words as they have been repeated many times): “In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.” [2]
Today, these powerful words stand as two bookends—April 1, 2018 and February 10, 2026—now having been spoken by two beloved prophets of God. In the past eight years, this serious warning has been repeated 13 times in general conference including five times by members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve. They have been spoken 19 times in BYU-Idaho devotionals.
How many here are 20 years old? Think of it, this specific warning has been a part of the Lord’s teaching to you since you were 12 years old.
Nearly 30 years ago, President Henry B. Eyring, who was then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, said something in general conference that I have not forgotten. He said, “One of the ways we may know that the warning is from the Lord is that the law of witnesses, authorized witnesses, has been invoked. When the words of prophets seem repetitive, that should rivet our attention and fill our hearts with gratitude to live in such a blessed time.” [3]
The words that have been pressed upon my mind are: “the law of … authorized witnesses;” “has been invoked;” “when … repetitive … should rivet our attention.”
After quoting President Nelson 12 days ago, President Oaks issued more sobering counsel. He said, “One of the many reasons you will need the constant influence of the Holy Ghost is that you live in a season in which the adversary has become so effective at disguising truth that if you don’t have the Holy Ghost, you will be deceived. Many obstacles lie ahead. The distractions will be many.” [4]
Here are the words that stand out to me: season; adversary; disguising truth; “if you don’t have the Holy Ghost,” “you will be deceived;” obstacles; distractions.
Interestingly, he did not say that without the constant influence of the Holy Ghost, you might be deceived, or you could be deceived. He said if you don’t have the Holy Ghost, you will be deceived.
Let’s all repeat this important warning from the prophet of God and instead of using the word “you,” let’s insert the word “I.” Ready?
“One of the many reasons [I] will need the constant influence of the Holy Ghost is that [I] live in a season in which the adversary has become so effective at disguising truth that if [I] don’t have the Holy Ghost, [I] will be deceived. Many obstacles lie ahead. The distractions will be many.”
So, what do you do to rivet your attention, to assure that you survive spiritually by having the constant influence of the Holy Ghost?
You look carefully at your daily activities. Am I praying? Am I thoughtfully partaking of the sacrament? What am I putting into my mind? Am I associating with others who seek the constant influence of the Holy Ghost? What could be my distractions, my obstacles, or my deceptions?
You pray for inspiration and courage to make any changes you need to make.
I spoke here at the BYU-Idaho Commencement in April 2022. My talk was titled, “Who Are You Listening To?” In that talk, I, too, shared President Nelson’s words. I also quoted the Apostle Paul who said, “There are … so many kinds of voices in the world.” [5] If there were so many kinds of voices in the time of the Apostle Paul, how would we describe the innumerable myriad of voices thrusting themselves upon us today?
We live in an amazing world of information and persuasion, with so many powerful voices speaking to us and seeking to influence us. We should be grateful for the opportunities we have for learning and expanding our understanding. But with all the good of our modern society, there comes as well a flood of commotion and confusion. In the words of the Irish poet, Williams Butler Yeats, written in 1919:
Turning and turning the widening gyre [Meaning in a whirling, circular motion.]
The falcon cannot hear the falconer;
Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold; …
The best lack all conviction, while the worst
Are full of passionate intensity. [6]
Just twelve days ago, President Oaks taught: “An abundance of speculation and false information in podcasts and on social media surrounds us … Don’t be persuaded by false or inaccurate information.” [7]
In counseling us to prepare “for our appointed meeting with our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ,” President Oaks said,“Take care not to become distracted. Remember His parable of the ten virgins. We want to be among the five humble ones who were admitted to the presence of the Lord.” [8]
How many here are familiar with the parable of the ten virgins?
Could you tell me where it is found? Yes, Matthew 25.
Who else in the First Presidency or Quorum of the Twelve have spoken about the parable of the ten virgins recently? Interestingly, Elder Bednar has spoken about the ten virgins three times in general conference. Elder Rasband spoke of the parable three years ago, and Elder Renlund spoke about it just last April. With President Oaks’s invitation and three apostles explaining the principles of this important parable, I have thought again about President Eyring’s message of the law of authorized witnesses. I have found myself riveting my attention on this parable.
Let me share a sampling of the teachings of the apostles and then we will return to President Oaks.
First, the teaching of Elder Rasband: “The ten virgins represent members of the Church, and the bridegroom represents Jesus Christ. … We, like the ten virgins, have lamps; but do we have oil? … Oil comes from believing and acting on prophecy and the words of living prophets…. Oil fills our souls when we hear and feel the Holy Ghost and act on that divine guidance. Oil pours into our hearts when our choices show we love the Lord and we love what He loves. Oil comes from repenting and seeking the healing of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.” [9]
Next from Elder Renlund: “The five wise virgins could not help those without oil; no one can accept the gospel, take the Holy Ghost as a guide, and avoid deception on our behalf. We have to do this for ourselves.” [10]
Now, from Elder Bednar: “The wise virgins … were emphasizing our individual responsibility to keep our lamp of testimony burning and to obtain an ample supply of the oil of conversion. This precious oil is acquired one drop at a time … patiently and persistently. No shortcut is available.” [11]
Remember the warning and counsel of President Oaks just two weeks ago: “Take care not to become distracted. Remember His parable of the ten virgins. We want to be among the five humble ones who were admitted to the presence of the Lord.” [12]
And once again, President Eyring: “One of the ways we may know that the warning is from the Lord is that the law of witnesses, authorized witnesses, has been invoked. When the words of prophets seem repetitive, that should rivet our attention and fill our hearts with gratitude to live in such a blessed time.” [13]
How can we rivet our attention to the repeated teaching of the parable of the ten virgins? How do we strengthen ourselves spiritually as President Oaks said to be “among the five humble ones who were admitted into the presence of the Lord?”
He shared four impressions. (When a prophet speaks of his impressions, that is a spiritually powerful emphasis for believers.) President Oaks shared four impressions that will draw us closer to our Savior:
- First, strengthen our faith in Him.
- Second, increase our humility.
- Third, seek help from others.
- Fourth, be patient.
Here are his words that followed: “Focus on developing [your] faith in God and in the mission of His Son, Jesus Christ. Strong faith requires more than strong desire. It means daily trying, one step at a time, with prayer and scripture study.” [14] Daily trying, prayer, and scripture study. Give this some thought. Where are you? Where would you like to be?
You here at BYU-Idaho are in an important time of decisions in your life. You have already made many righteous choices. You made the choice to believe in God and to follow Jesus Christ. You have made promises to God and you are keeping them. Many of you have served missions or will serve missions. You are on the path that will lead you to where you want to go. Be steady in your pursuit. President Oaks used a phrase I noted: “Protect yourself.” He used the word protect or protection three times.
Here is President Oaks’s specific counsel for the decisions before you.
- Protect yourself with the weekly renewing of your covenants by partaking of the sacrament.
- Protect yourself … with consistent efforts to live according to those sacred covenants.
- Protect yourself … [with] regular attendance at the temple.
- Surround yourself with people who believe.
- Seek friends … who are striving to follow the Lord— … with whom you can feel the Spirit and … reinforce your faith.
- Never let your secular learning limit your horizons.
- Look to the needs of others.
- Be patient with one another, and, occasionally, with [yourself]. [15]
You might consider putting some of these statements on your mirror or on your phone or somewhere you will see them. After a late Saturday night, you may question if you are too tired to attend Church. But then you will remember President Oaks’s counsel, “Protect yourself with the weekly renewing of your covenants by partaking of the sacrament.” Protect yourself “with consistent efforts to live according to those sacred covenants.” [16]
You may feel like you have no time with work and school. Then you will see on your mirror the prophet’s counsel and blessing. “Protect yourself … [with] regular attendance at the temple.” You may find yourself in online group chats or with people who are not valiant in their covenants, and the words of the prophet will come into your mind, “Surround yourself with people who believe.” [17]
Read his words and think about them enough that they become a part of your life. This is a pivotal time in your life.
A message at BYU-Idaho would not be complete without mentioning another subject important to the Lord’s prophet, and a subject I know is important to you: marriage and families.
Two weeks ago, President Oaks spoke of it briefly, warning that those who express “little desire to be married or to have children” are “[jeopardizing] their spiritual growth.” [18] In the October general conference, he said, “In the United States we are suffering from a deterioration in marriage and childbearing. … The marriages and birthrates of our Church members are much more positive, but they have also declined significantly. It is vital that Latter-day Saints do not lose their understanding of the purpose of marriage and the value of children.” [19]
I spoke here at BYU-Idaho two years ago. My witness echoed the counsel of President Oaks. I said, “If we have the opportunity, we are to travel through our adult mortality with an eternal companion. … [We] should not avoid or delay this most important step in our progression.” [20]
One of the reasons BYU-Idaho is so exceptional is that through President and Sister Meredith, opportunities to meet and interact with one another are being expanded. They have riveted their attention on the words of the prophet and have thought deeply about how they can create experiences that will help you follow his counsel.
President Meredith has said: “We are having these Date Nights to reset the culture of dating at BYU-Idaho. Our invitation to you is: date! It should be fun, relaxed, and an easy way to get to know someone in a safe way. … The greatest joys in life come when you put the Lord first and strive to create a happy and successful marriage.” [21]
How many have seen the anniversary video that the Meredith’s daughter, Caroline, organized for them? An amazing video!
Once again, we see the power of “authorized witnesses” and words that should “rivet our attention.” How do you “rivet your attention” on this counsel? You constantly meet and get to know new people. And to both you men and you women—reach out, take chances, and cultivate relationships especially with those who are continually growing their already strong faith in Jesus Christ.
My dear friends, I love you. You could not be living in a better place to “draw closer to our Savior” and to prepare for your mortal and eternal life.
I reassure you that your faith in Jesus Christ is true. The Savior lives. He is resurrected. He has given us the way to return to Him and to our Father. “He is the way,” as President Oaks has said. His restored gospel is here upon the earth, right here with us. God has a prophet upon the earth. I testify that we have heard his voice and it is as the Lord Himself has spoken to us.
Let us be true disciples of Jesus Christ. I know Him. I love Him. The Redeemer of Israel knows you, loves you, and will strengthen you as you seek to draw closer to Him. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Notes
[1] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[2] Russell M. Nelson, “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 96.
[3] Henry B. Eyring, “Finding Safety in Counsel,” Ensign or Liahona, May 1997, 25.
[4] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[5] 1 Corinthians 14:10.
[6] William Butler Yeats, “The Second Coming,” The Collected Poems of W. B. Yeats, 1989.
[7] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[8] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[9] Ronald A. Rasband, “Hosanna to the Most High God,” Liahona, May 2023, 110.
[10] Dale G. Renlund, “Personal Preparation to Meet the Savior,” Liahona, May 2025.
[11] David A. Bednar, “Converted unto the Lord,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2012, 109.
[12] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[13] Henry B. Eyring, “Finding Safety in Counsel,” Ensign or Liahona, May 1997, 25.
[14] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[15] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[16] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[17] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[18] Dallin H. Oaks, “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional, Feb. 10, 2026.
[19] Dallin H. Oaks, “The Family-Centered Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Liahona, Nov. 2025.
[20] Neil L. Andersen, “Facing Mortality as Adults: Marriage, Children, and the Temple,” BYU Idaho Devotional, May 19, 2024.
[21] Notes sent by President Alvin F. Meredith III, February 15, 2026.
About Elder Neil A. Andersen
Elder Neil L. Andersen was named to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on April 4, 2009.
Neil L. Andersen was born in Logan, Utah, and raised in Pocatello, Idaho.
He graduated from Brigham Young University, where he was a Hinckley Scholar, and earned a masters of business administration from Harvard University. After completing his education, he settled in Tampa, Florida, where his business interests included advertising, real estate development and health care.
Neil L. Andersen and his wife, Kathy Williams Andersen, are the parents of four children.
Prior to his call as a general authority, Elder Andersen served as a mission president in the France Bordeaux Mission and as president of the Tampa Florida Stake.
He was serving as the senior member of the Presidency of the Seventy prior to his calling to the Quorum of the Twelve. He was named a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy in April 1993, at age 41. Elder Andersen previously led the work of the Church in southern Brazil and, again as a member of an area presidency, oversaw the Church in western Europe. He has also assisted in supervising the work of the Church in Mexico and Central America. In addition, he supervised Church audiovisual production, including the filming of “The Testaments: Of One Fold and One Shepherd” and managed construction of the broadcast facilities in the Conference Center as the executive director of the Church Audiovisual Department. He speaks French, Portuguese and Spanish in addition to his native English.