Sometimes we may question whether direction that comes from our leaders is truly inspired. We wonder if we are the best person suited for the calling or whether it truly came from the Lord. Perhaps we take issue with correction that we have received from our bishop.
Let’s take a look at what the scriptures say about this. In Doctrine and Covenants 1:38, it says:
“What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.”
We can see that if direction or correction comes to us from a leader, we are to consider it as having come from the Lord. As far as we are concerned, their direction should be considered as law for us. We should also remember that we have sustained them.
When we sustain someone, we let the Lord know that we will uphold them. We make a promise. Regarding this, President Henry B. Eyring has said:
“By raising your hand to sustain, you make a promise. You make a promise with God, whose servants these are, that you will sustain them.”
These humble servants of Heavenly Father have been called by inspiration to the positions which they hold. They carry the mantle of that calling. Part of that mantle is the ability to receive revelation regarding the fulfilling of that calling.
In the Institute manual for the Doctrine and Covenants, Section 1, we are informed:
“No man, however strong he may be in the faith, however high in the Priesthood, can speak evil of the Lord’s anointed and find fault with God’s authority on the earth without incurring His displeasure.”
What can we do if we find ourselves at odds with one of our leaders? First off, we would do well to internalize D&C 1:38 that we reviewed above. Also, we could pray to have a testimony of their direction and for the desire to follow it. We could fast for them that they might be inspired to do and speak the will of the Lord.
If your bishop gives you council, the very best thing you can do in the Lord’s eyes is to follow it. Do as you are directed, and the Lord will bless you for it. I have seen this happen in my own life. Marion G. Romney, quoting Heber J. Grant once said:
“I remember years ago when I was a bishop I had President Heber J. Grant talk to our ward. After the meeting I drove him home… Standing by me, he put his arm over my shoulder and said: ‘My boy, you always keep your eye on the President of the Church and if he ever tells you to do anything, and it is wrong, and you do it, the Lord will bless you for it.’ Then with a twinkle in his eye, he said, ‘But you don’t need to worry. The Lord will never let his mouthpiece lead the people astray.'”
Stay on the path. Sustain your leaders. You’ll do just fine.
See also: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2019/04/34eyring?lang=eng