Why is [a] man called to act as president over a people? Is it in order to acquire an influence and then to use that influence directly for his own aggrandizement? No, but on the contrary, he is called to act in such a position on the same principle as the priesthood was given to the Son of God, that he should make sacrifices. For himself? No, but in the interests of the people over whom he presides.
Ask the Lord that you may say something during your remarks that will be beneficial to those whom you address. Never mind whether it will be something that will add to your own glory or not, but simply bear in mind that you are called upon to address the audience and that they desire to receive something that will benefit them. This can only come from the Lord. Do not worry as to whether … those who hear you may say you spoke beautifully. Do not mind about that at all, but remove every selfishness that may be in your mind that the Lord may dictate unto you something that will be of benefit to the people. (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Lorenzo Snow, Chapter 18: Church Leadership and Selfless Service)
1 comment:
Sounds a lot like our wonderful young Bishop who never seeks to dominate or indeed to attract attention-indeed you might not even know he was Bishop were you to be a visitor to the ward.
Post a Comment