Once we understand the principles that have always led to good government, it’s time we understand our responsibility to be actively engaged in its preservation. It has been said that “Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty”. This section is dedicated to helping us to understand what we must be vigilant in.
Civic Standards for the Faithful Saints, by Ezra Taft Benson
In this talk, Ezra Taft Benson spoke of our civic responsibilities regarding the Constitution, supporting “good and conscientious candidates”, becoming informed of our duty and aware of the threats to freedom (specifically becoming awake to secret combinations). He also spoke about using as a guide: the scriptures, the inspired counsel of the prophets, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
The Constitution: A Heavenly Banner, by Ezra Taft Benson
In addition to discussing the basic principles of (1) agency, (2) the proper role of government, (3) God as the source of our rights, (4) the people are superior to the governments they form, and (5) the limited powers of government, Benson outlines four things we must do to fulfill our civic responsibilities.
Not Commanded in All Things, by Ezra Taft Benson
“No greater immediate responsibility rests upon members of the Church, upon all citizens of this Republic and of neighboring Republics than to protect the freedom vouchsafed by the Constitution of the United States.”
Now where do we stand in this struggle, and what are we doing about it? The devil knows that if the elders of Israel should ever wake up, they could step forth and help preserve freedom and extend the gospel. Therefore the devil has concentrated, and to a large extent successfully, in neutralizing much of the priesthood. He has reduced them to sleeping giants. His arguments are clever..
