"You can't be in the light and the dark at the same time," Sharon G. Larsen, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, counseled young women March 27.
Sister Larsen related to those gathered for the General Young Women Meeting a conversation she had with a "young friend" who told her it was important to see vulgar and violent movies so one wouldn't be naive and uninformed.
"I asked my young friend, 'Would you rather expose yourself to what the world has to offer to be informed and then left on your own to make decisions, or would you choose to be guided by the Lord and live your life to be filled with so much light and truth and goodness that there is no room for darkness?'
"This light," Sister Larsen explained, "is symbolized in the Young Women Torch. That torch you wear with your profile in the flame can fuel your desire to stand for truth and righteousness. It is a reminder that Christ is your light and He will show you the way through the happy times and the mists of darkness. You never need to feel alone or forsaken."
Speaking of the journey of Lehi's family to the promised land, Sister Larsen continued: "You all must have promised lands that you would like to go to, and you can have your own light in that wilderness that challenges young people today.
"This light comes all wrapped up in love, the Lord's love for every one of His children, and especially for young people. The Lord knows that you face challenges and temptations, and He provides the light that brightens your hearts, your minds and your spirits."
Continuing, she shared the account of an exchange student from Korea who found strength and guidance in prayer. "You know, don't you, that prayer turns on the light? When you make prayer a regular part of your life, you begin walking in the light, in the straight and narrow way.
"Many young women are following this light, and the Lord is blessing them," Sister Larsen said. Then, through video testimonies, several young women shared how they overcome challenges by letting the Lord guide their way.
"Let the Lord be your light. Let Him prepare the way before you to your promised land," Sister Larsen counseled. "You don't have to be a prophet like Lehi or the brother of Jared. Just be you — with a hunger and thirst for righteousness."
