Unity in Individual Exertion

In December 1840 the Prophet Joseph Smith wrote to members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and other priesthood leaders who were serving missions in Great Britain:

“...Let the Saints remember that great things depend on their individual exertion, and that they are called to be co-workers with us and the Holy Spirit in accomplishing the great work of the last days; and in consideration of the extent, the blessings and glories of the same, let every selfish feeling be not only buried, but annihilated; and let love to God and man predominate, and reign triumphant in every mind, that their hearts may become like unto Enoch’s of old, and comprehend all things, present, past and future, and come behind in no gift, waiting for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ [see 1 Corinthians 1:7].

“...Let us realize that we are not to live to ourselves, but to God; by so doing the greatest blessings will rest upon us both in time and in eternity.”

Excerpted from Chapter 23: “How Good and How Pleasant It Is … to Dwell Together in Unity”, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, (2007), 271–80.