Agency Quote by George Albert Smith
““There are two influences ever present in the world. One is constructive and elevating and comes from our Heavenly Father; the other is destructive and debasing and comes from Lucifer. We have our agency and make our own choice in life subject to these unseen powers. There is a division line well defined that separates the Lord's territory from Lucifer's. If we live on the Lord's side of the line Lucifer cannot come there to influence us, but if we cross the line into his territory we are in his power. By keeping the commandments of the Lord we are safe on His side of the line, but if we disobey His teachings we voluntarily cross into the zone of temptation and invite the destruction that is ever present there. Knowing this, how anxious we should always be to live on the Lord's side of the line.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: General Conference, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1919
Human choices are framed by spiritual forces of good and evil; obeying divine commandments keeps us in the realm of light, while disobedience opens us to temptation and harm.
In simple terms: Choosing good keeps us safe; bad choices expose us to danger.
Key Takeaway
Follow divine guidance, avoid temptation.
Themes
spirituality
morality
choice
temptation
faith
Mood
reflective
hopeful
serious
Type
advice
inspirational
theological
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- religious practice
- ethical dilemmas
- self‑discipline
- community guidance
Key Concepts
free will
spiritual warfare
obedience
temptation
agency
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize the line between safe and risky choices?
- What practices help you stay aligned with your values?
A Different Perspective
Even with commandments, external pressures and personal doubts can still lead to mistakes.
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