Agency Quote by James E. Faust
“Our agency, given us through the plan of our Father, is the great alternative to Satan's plan of force. With this sublime gift, we can grow, improve, progress, and seek perfection. Without agency, none of us could grow and develop by learning from our mistakes and errors and those of others… I do not really think the devil can make us do anything. Certainly he can tempt and he can deceive, but he has no authority over us that we do not give him.”
About This Quote
Human free will, guided by divine purpose, opposes coercive evil; growth comes from learning through choices.
In simple terms: Free will lets us grow despite temptation.
Key Takeaway
Embrace agency and learn from mistakes.
Themes
free will
spiritual growth
temptation
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- education
- personal decision making
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
theology
ethics
personal development
Questions to Reflect On
- What role does personal responsibility play in moral growth?
- How can we balance free will with societal constraints?
A Different Perspective
Assumes a theistic framework not shared by all.
![“Satan had two conditions [to his plan]: the first was the denial of agency, and the second, that he would have the honor. In other words, something had to be in it for him. And thus he became the father of lies and selfishness. Taking up one's cross and following the Savior means overcoming…” quote by James E. Faust](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/287/james-e-faust-1274_agency_satan-had-two-conditions-to-his-plan-the_97153.jpg)
![“We have no clear ideas of the agency of [demonic] spirits, nor is it necessary. The Scripture says little to satisfy our curiosity; but tells us plainly that he is always watching us, and desiring to sift us as wheat. I believe we give him no more than his due, when we charge him with having a…” quote by John Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c75/john-newton-6629_abundance_we-have-no-clear-ideas-of-the-agency-of_2907.jpg)
