# PonderIt

## Sunday, December 04, 2005

### Why I follow my leaders

I don’t believe that all or even most of the decisions made by church leaders are inspired. I believe that the purpose of our life on earth (among other things) is to learn to make wise choices. We are learning to become more like God. We are modeling our lives on the Savior. Because I believe this is the purpose of life, I don’t have a problem with being patient with leaders as they figure out what they are doing--even imperfectly.
There is a saying: Catholics teach that the pope is infallible, but none of the members believe it. Mormons teach that the prophet is fallible, but none of the members believe it.
Even though I believe I will receive erroneous counsel from my church leaders from time to time, I believe that they are doing the best that they can and that I will be blessed for following them.
I’m having a hard time with a small thing that I’m being asked to do by my ward leaders. I don’t feel totally comfortable doing the thing I’ve been asked to do. (Nothing untoward, I assure you.) But I am determined, especially with the encouragement of my wife, to proceed the best that I can and serve with all my heart. I’m going to try because I want to live my life based on principles I believe in, not just the feel-good trend of the moment. I’ve had this conversation about following leaders many times with my wife. Now it is time to walk the walk.

#### 2 Comments:

- Have you talked to your leaders about your concern?
  I have on occasion, and they have been more than willing to discuss it. A time or two, they have even changed the policy they issued, not realising such a concern was possible.

  By Kim Siever, at 12/05/2005 10:41 AM

- I did have a long conversation on the matter. But this is a case of direction from far above the local level. It was an interesting conversation, and I will probably pursue some of it here when I'm less worked up about it all. I'm already feeling better about it and prepared to give it my all.

  By Bradley, at 12/06/2005 9:52 PM

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