- Day 38
- Principle: Turning the other cheek is a demonstration of courage.
- Read: 2 Nephi 2:11 - 2:21
- According to these verses why must there needs be "opposition in all things?" (v. 11)
- Robert D. Hales taught about 'Christian courage.' Read the following and ponder the meaning of courage.
“Some people mistakenly think responses such as silence, meekness, forgiveness, and bearing humble testimony are passive or weak. But to ‘love [our] enemies, bless them that curse [us], do good to them that hate [us], and pray for them which despitefully use [us], and persecute [us]’ (Matthew 5:44) takes faith, strength, and, most of all, Christian courage. …
“When we do not retaliate—when we turn the other cheek and resist feelings of anger—we too stand with the Savior. We show forth His love, which is the only power that can subdue the adversary and answer our accusers without accusing them in return. That is not weakness. That is Christian courage. …
“As we respond to others, each circumstance will be different. Fortunately, the Lord knows the hearts of our accusers and how we can most effectively respond to them. As true disciples seek guidance from the Spirit, they receive inspiration tailored to each encounter. And in every encounter, true disciples respond in ways that invite the Spirit of the Lord. …
“As true disciples, our primary concern must be others’ welfare, not personal vindication. Questions and criticisms give us an opportunity to reach out to others and demonstrate that they matter to our Heavenly Father and to us. Our aim should be to help them understand the truth, not defend our egos or score points in a theological debate. Our heartfelt testimonies are the most powerful answer we can give our accusers” (“Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 72, 73–74).
- Review the baptismal covenant in Mosiah 18:9. How does demonstrating Christian courage fulfill the baptismal covenant?
- In what ways does your relationship with others demonstrate your relationship with God?
- Mormon.org teaches about turning the other cheek. Read the following and ponder your answer from the previous question.
In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught, “But whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matthew 5:39).
But what did the Savior mean?
As His sermon continues, the answer to this question becomes clearer: “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:43–44).
As our perfect example, Jesus Christ served and blessed those who rejected Him. Even in His last moments of life he prayed for those who had put Him on the cross.
Learning to love those who treat us poorly can be hard. When we feel underappreciated, disrespected, or used, it seems painful to “turn the other cheek.” Christ doesn’t intend for us to suffer at the hand of others, but He does want us to not do the same to them. Love and service softens hearts; retaliation will often harden them.
Here are two attributes of Christ that will help us apply the principle of turning the other cheek.
HUMILITY
Pride is often the source of bitterness and hurt feelings. As we follow the Lord’s example and humble ourselves, we will feel healing. Instead of asking “What’s in it for me?” try asking “What can I do for someone else?” Looking outwardly changes our perspective, humbles us, and helps us better understand others.
FORGIVENESS
As we humble ourselves, we find it easier not only to forgive others but also to seek forgiveness. Letting go of grudges helps us heal and stops us from limiting our view of others. As we let go of these feelings and forgive, it’s much easier to love those around us and be happier ourselves.
(https://www.mormon.org/blog/turn-the-other-cheek)
- Additional Study
- Robert D. Hales, “Christian Courage: The Price of Discipleship,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 72–75.
- Who's on the Lord's Side?, Hymns No. 260
- Nephi's Courage, Children's Songbook No. 120