By Jared Harding Wilson
Today’s quote celebrates the uplifting power of service, a principle that not only blesses those we help but also transforms us in the process. It’s a reminder that when we lift others, we rise together.
Today’s Quote
“Those who serve will always seek to please God and live in harmony with Him. They will be full of peace; they will have a cheerful countenance and a spirit of kindness.”
— Carlos H. Amado
The Story Behind the Quote
Carlos H. Amado, a former General Authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared this insight in a 2008 address. As the first General Authority from Central America, born in Guatemala in 1944, Amado’s life was steeped in service, reflecting the harmony and joy that come from helping others. His words capture the essence of how service aligns us with divine purpose, fostering peace and kindness within us. This truth came alive for me recently during a heartfelt experience.
A dear friend, grieving the sudden loss of her mother—a remarkable woman who, with her husband, adopted seven children and cherished Mount Timpanogos in Utah—wanted to honor her mother’s memory. Though not physically prepared for the challenging hike to the summit, she was determined to sign her mother’s name in the shack at the top, a tradition for hikers. Our group rallied around her, carrying her backpack and offering encouragement. When she reached the summit and wrote her mother’s name, the moment was filled with peace and connection. The “cheerful countenance and spirit of kindness” Amado described.
A Personal Connection
For me, service is a two-way blessing. It’s like what my brother-in-law shared in church a few Sundays ago. He was grinding through prep for a big law school entrance exam (which he totally aced!), and he found that teaching the material to others helped him understand it better. By serving, he grew stronger, and it showed me how we all grow when we lift each other up. Helping my friend on that Timpanogos hike wasn’t just about honoring her mother—it strengthened me and our whole group, filling us with joy and purpose.
Words of Wisdom
Our beloved prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, put it beautifully:
“The best is yet to come. Because the Lord is hastening His work, we have opportunities to serve and bless others like never before.”
— Russell M. Nelson, October 2020 General Conference
This reminds me that every act of service is a chance to be part of something divine, growing closer to God and those around me.
From the Book of Mormon, Mosiah 2:17 says:
“And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.”
King Benjamin’s words hit home—serving others is serving God, and it brings a peace that transforms us.
What It Means to Me
Amado’s quote, paired with President Nelson’s and King Benjamin’s teachings, reminds me that service isn’t just about giving—it’s about growing together. Whether I’m teaching someone to understand better or carrying a friend’s burden up a mountain, those moments fill me with peace and turn challenges into joy.
How has serving others lifted you up? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments. Let’s keep inspiring each other!
Photos by Jared Harding Wilson. All rights reserved.
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