Aaronic Priesthood holders were reminded by Elder James J. Hamula of their role, purpose and future as valiant warriors in the ongoing war between good and evil.
"You are these valiant and noble sons of our Father," said Elder Hamula of the Seventy in the Saturday evening priesthood session. He quoted phrases from Alma 13:3-4: "You are 'the strength of the Lord's house, his warriors.' You are those who chose good over evil, and who exhibited 'exceedingly great faith' and 'good works.'
"And because of your personal history, you were entrusted to come to the earth in these last days to do again what you did before — to once again choose good over evil, exercise exceedingly great faith, and perform good works — and to do so in behalf of the kingdom of God on earth and your fellow man."
He warned of Satan's enticements. "He knows that if he can draw you into transgression, he can prevent you from serving a full-time mission, marrying in the temple and securing your future children in the faith, all of which weakens not only you but the Church."
Citing Helaman's 2,000 warriors and the prophet Mormon as examples of soberness, Elder Hamula called on youth to be sober to the ways of the world and to avoid sin.
"You cannot do these things and be victorious in the battle for your own soul, let alone be a valiant warrior in the great struggle for the souls of all the rest of our Father's children."
He offered three steps for young men to follow in being valiant — to pray with fervency and frequency, to learn to hear the voice of the Lord and to obey.
"These are your days — do not squander them," Elder Hamula said, adding "and when you've done all you can do, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord."
