In a popular billboard for a Belgian beer (Stella Artois) it shows a handsome man and a beautiful woman sitting across a table from a single glass of brew and each other. The caption says, “She is a thing of beauty.” It is uncertain if he is speaking about the woman or the brew. It promotes the consumption of an alcoholic beverage and a skin deep physical attraction that may be sinful in an improper context.
In another ad for a Mexican beer, a well dressed man who is said to be the most interesting man in the world says “I don’t always drink, but when I do, I prefer Dos XX Beer.” Then he says “Stay thirsty my friends.”
That comment is reflective of the philosophy of many in the modern business world; although the outcome is likely detrimental for many, but the marketing is genius. I give the marketer of both products full credit for their cleverness. I recognize a good marketing campaign when I see such an ad– both are great.
Unfortunately, these ads promote ideas and behavior that is prevalent in our world and runs contrary to the gospel of Jesus Christ and modern day revelation. The adversary is very clever and he subtly influences us at every turn.
Fortunately, we have the gospel and since we have a restored church (the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often mistakenly called the Mormon Church) with modern day prophets and revelations, we know that the behaviors promoted in the billboard run contrary to our spiritual well being and the commandments of the Lord, specifically the word of wisdom, and perhaps the law of chastity. Perhaps one of the most valuable tools we have in the gospel is personal prayer.
President Monson tells us “to those within the sound of my voice who are struggling with challenges and difficulties large and small, prayer is a provider of spiritual strength. It is a passport to peace. Prayer is the means by which we approach our father in heaven, who loves us. Speak to him in prayer and then listen for the answer. Miracles are wrought through prayer. (Ensign, May 2009, p. 67-70).
Boyd K. Packer, president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ, tells us “…learn to pray and pray often. Pray in your mind and in your heart. Pray on your knees. Prayer is your personal key to heaven. The lock is on your side of the veil. (Ensign, Nov. 1994, p.59). These are the powerful words and teachings of Modern day prophets.
Praying for guidance can help us to discern what is good for us and what is not. We have divine potential, and the very least worldly distractions can do is to lead us away from fulfilling that potential. The worst they can do is to destroy us physically and spiritually. Prayer can lead us to a validation that what Mormon prophets teach is true and beneficial to us. Soon, we can come to the point where we fully realize this. We can thus lay our sins upon the altar and follow God with all our heart, might, mind, and strength.
This article was written by Mel Borup Chandler, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Mel Borup Chandler lives in California. He writes about science-related topics, technological breakthroughs and medicine. He is a former member of the Los Angeles Press Club. Additionally, he has also served an LDS Mission in Argentina during Argentina’s “Dirty War.”
Additional Resources:
The “Word of Wisdom” (Mormon law of health)
http://youtu.be/Aq1FO7Upq4Y