Elder L. Tom Perry Quote

I was reading through my three assigned talks from the April 2014 General Conference to select which one I want to use for my lesson on Sunday.  I actually selected a different talk for my lesson but as I read Elder Perry's talk, the following quote resonated with me.  So I thought I would share it on my blog.  Since it's not going to be part of my lesson.

By the way, if you think this quote is directed towards you -- you are wrong. Don't flatter yourself.  :-)  I just really liked this quote when I read it and wanted to share it with everybody on my blog.  Enjoy!

Too often we think of obedience as the passive and thoughtless following of the orders or dictates of a higher authority. Actually, at its best, obedience is an emblem of our faith in the wisdom and power of the highest authority, even God. ...When we demonstrate our faithfulness through obedience, God will ultimately rescue us.

Those who rely solely on themselves and follow only their own desires and self-inclinations are so limited when compared to those who follow God and tap into His insight, power, and gifts. It has been said that someone who is all wrapped up in himself or herself makes a very small package. Strong, proactive obedience is anything but weak or passive. It is the means by which we declare our faith in God and qualify ourselves to receive the powers of heaven. Obedience is a choice. It is a choice between our own limited knowledge and power and God’s unlimited wisdom and omnipotence. 

-- Elder L. Tom Perry, Of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles, Obedience through Our Faithfulness, April 2014 General Conference