Over a decade ago at a freedom festival, President Gordon B. Hinckley mentioned two songs that he thought should be sung more often.  This article is based on the two verses that he mentioned.

The God of our fathers, Jesus Christ, suffered that the Constitution of the United States was established through wise men that he raised up for this purpose. D&C 101: 80 , D&C 101: 77

Benjamin Franklin so truthfully stated, “God governs in the affairs of man. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? We have been assured in the Sacred Writings that except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it. I firmly believe this. I also believe that, without His concurring aid, we shall succeed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel." 

The Lord has told us that he justifies all the members of His church in befriending the Constitution of this land.  That it is meant for all mankind, for all nations. D&C 98: 6

In a time when we have an increase in war and rumors of wars, President Hinckley’s words ring true:

“The Book of Mormon narrative is a chronicle of nations long since gone. But in its descriptions of the problems of today’s society, it is as current as the morning newspaper and much more definitive, inspired, and inspiring concerning the solutions of those problems.

I know of no other writing which sets forth with such clarity the tragic consequences to societies that follow courses contrary to the commandments of God. Its pages trace the stories of two distinct civilizations that flourished on the Western Hemisphere. Each began as a small nation, its people walking in the fear of the Lord. But with prosperity came growing evils. The people succumbed to the wiles of ambitious and scheming leaders who oppressed them with burdensome taxes, who lulled them with hollow promises, who countenanced and even encouraged loose and lascivious living. These evil schemers led the people into terrible wars that resulted in the death of millions and the final and total extinction of two great civilizations in two different eras. ” (August Ensign 2005) and “We are involved in terrible wars with lives lost and many crippling wounds.” (General Conference Priesthood session 2006)

The Lord has given us guidelines for just war. (D&C 98:33-38) We are to fight only in defense, and after we have asked Him for His guidance on whether or not to go to war.  In the Book of Mormon, Zoram goes to Alma to ask if it is the Lord’s will if they go to save their prisoners of war. (Alma 16:4-6) The Book of Mormon is full of warnings about the destruction and slavery that results from these terrible wars. (Mormon 6:17-22)

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Kelly Setzer said:

Tuesday, 22 April, 2008 Charity, This article is brilliant! I'm so glad that you have begun pursuing published writing. You have such a tremendous gift. Not only for storytelling, but for elating factual accounts in a manner that not only appeals to the higher intellects of society but is readily accessible to the common man as well. I look forward to reading more of your accounts and writings. My love to you and your family. With affection, Kelly

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April 22, 2008
Votes: +1

Cynthia Perkins said:

	Hi Charity, I was just able to read this article. You are doing a great job. Sorry it took so long. Got the missionary off to the MTC. And finished that last semester. Talk to you soon, Cynthia
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May 06, 2008
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