Careful Quote by John Andreas Widtsoe
“Were we more careful to obey the part of the word of wisdom that deals with the "do's" it might be easier to obey the "don'ts"”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: LDS General Conference, 1955
Focusing on positive commandments makes it easier to follow negative ones.
In simple terms: Follow positive rules to help obey negatives.
Key Takeaway
Emphasize positive guidance.
Themes
morality
obedience
guidance
Mood
reflective
instructive
Type
ethical
motivational
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- self‑discipline
Key Concepts
positive reinforcement
ethical behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance “do’s” and “don’ts”?
- What are the limits of positive focus?
A Different Perspective
May ignore the importance of clear prohibitions.
![“I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.[*] 27 And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.” quote by Anonymous](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7c9/anonymous-1_new-heart_i-will-give-you-a-new-heart-and-i-will-p_2289699.jpg)
![“[A]s you partake of the world's bill of fare, that's darned good advice to follow. Do a lot of spitting out the hot air. And be careful what you swallow.” quote by Dr. Seuss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/da8/dr-seuss-1224_advice_a-s-you-partake-of-the-world-s-bill-of-f_6806.jpg)
![“I just have to deal with it [injuries] if and when problems happen. It's obviously a concern and I've been very careful with my training, making sure I warm up and warm down before everything and not pushing myself too stupidly.” quote by Greg James](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fe8/greg-james-37075_careful_i-just-have-to-deal-with-it-injuries-if_10706.jpg)
