Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s quotes emphasize that the gospel is “beautifully simple” and best lived through small, daily efforts rather than grand gestures. Using aviation metaphors from his career as a pilot, President Uchtdorf illustrates how a mere two-degree course correction prevents a spiritual crash and why “forward thrust” is required to maintain spiritual lift. He describes the Church not as a showroom for the perfect, but as a service center for those seeking the transformative power of grace. Similar to our Dallin H. Oaks Quotes page, this inspiring quote collection features teachings from Dieter F. Uchtdorf that explore how centering our lives on the Savior turns the pursuit of holiness into a pursuit of happiness.
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Table of Contents
- Discipleship
- “Daily Restoration”
- Divine Identity
- Jesus Christ and His Atonement
- “Lifting Where You Stand”
- Authentic Discipleship
- Faith and Doubt
- Adversity and Resilience
- Love and Families
- Gratitude
- Joseph Smith and Church History
- Conversion, Pioneers, and Church Membership
- Christmas and Advent
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes on Discipleship through Small and Simple Acts
— A major recurring theme of President Uchtdorf’s general conference addresses is that becoming a disciple of Christ is not about grand gestures but about consistent, daily effort in “small and simple things.”
A Straightforward Gospel
Living the gospel doesn’t need to be complicated. It is really straightforward. … It is beautifully simple, and it works beautifully.
“It Works Wonderfully!,” Conference Report, October 2015.
A Matter of a Few Degrees
In 1979 a large passenger jet with 257 people on board left New Zealand for a sightseeing flight to Antarctica and back. Unknown to the pilots, however, someone had modified the flight coordinates by a mere two degrees. … The airplane crashed into the side of the volcano, killing everyone on board. … The difference of a few degrees … may seem minor. But even small errors over time can make a dramatic difference in our lives.
“A Matter of a Few Degrees,” Conference Report, April 2008.
Forward Thrust
An aircraft flies only when air is moving over its wings. That movement creates differences in air pressure that give the plane lift. And how do you get enough air moving over the wings to create lift? The answer is forward thrust. … If we want the Savior to lift us heavenward, then our commitment to Him and His gospel can’t be casual or occasional.
“Our Heartfelt All,” Conference Report, April 2022.
Consistent Self-Discipline
Last year during a trip to Europe, I visited my old place of employment, Lufthansa German Airlines at the Frankfurt Airport. … During my visit, one of the Lufthansa executives asked if I would like to give it a try again and fly the 747 simulator one more time. … I’m happy to say that the flight was successful, the aircraft remained intact, and so did my self-image.
Even so, the experience was humbling for me. When I was in my prime, flying had become almost second nature. Now it took all my concentration to do the basic things.
My experience in the flight simulator was an important reminder that getting good at anything … takes consistent self-discipline and practice. … It also applies to becoming a disciple of Christ.
“Do Your Part with All Your Heart,” Conference Report, October 2025.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes on the Power of Hope and “Daily Restoration”
— President Uchtdorf often addresses those who feel lost, discouraged, or burdened by past mistakes. He emphasizes that there is always a point of safe return through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and that spiritual progress requires constant course corrections.
Visible Landmarks
Whatever the cause, it is human nature: without reliable landmarks, we drift off course. … But all is not lost. Unlike the wandering test subjects, we have reliable, visible landmarks that we can use to evaluate our course. And what are these landmarks?
Surely they include daily prayer and pondering the scriptures. … Think of it as your personal, daily restoration.
“Daily Restoration,” Conference Report, October 2021.
Focus on Things That Matter Most
What do you suppose pilots do when they encounter turbulence? A student pilot may think that increasing speed is a good strategy because it will get them through the turbulence faster. But that may be the wrong thing to do. Professional pilots understand that there is an optimum turbulence penetration speed that will minimize the negative effects of turbulence. And most of the time that would mean to reduce your speed. The same principle applies also to speed bumps on a road.
Therefore, it is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions. … We would do well to slow down a little, proceed at the optimum speed for our circumstances, focus on the significant, lift up our eyes, and truly see the things that matter most.
“Of Things That Matter Most,” Conference Report October 2010.
Point of Safe Return
There is an important decision point during such long flights commonly known as the point of safe return. Up to this point the aircraft has enough fuel to turn around and return safely to the airport of departure. Having passed the point of safe return, the captain has lost this option and has to continue on. That is why this point is often referred to as the point of no return. …
Satan wants us to think that when we have sinned we have gone past a “point of no return”—that it is too late to change our course. …
If we have taken a wrong course, the Atonement of Jesus Christ can give us the assurance that sin is not a point of no return. A safe return is possible if we will follow God’s plan for our salvation.
“Point of Safe Return,” Conference Report, April 2007.
The Way Back is Certain and Clear
There are those who have neglected to make appropriate course corrections and now believe that they are too far from the Lord’s way to ever make it back. To them we proclaim the good news that is the gospel of redemption and salvation. No matter how terribly off course you are, no matter how far you have strayed, the way back is certain and clear.
“A Matter of a Few Degrees,” Conference Report, April 2008.
Hope
Hope … is like the beam of sunlight rising up and above the horizon of our present circumstances. It pierces the darkness with a brilliant dawn. It encourages and inspires us to place our trust in the loving care of an eternal Heavenly Father.
“The Infinite Power of Hope,” Conference Report, October 2008.
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President Uchtdorf Quotes on Divine Identity and Infinite Worth
— Dieter F. Uchtdorf repeatedly emphasizes that every person is a beloved child of Heavenly Parents with limitless potential. He frequently reassures his audience—especially women and youth—that God knows them personally and loves them regardless of their perceived flaws or social status.
A Paradox of Man
This is a paradox of man: compared to God, man is nothing; yet we are everything to God. While against the backdrop of infinite creation we may appear to be nothing, we have a spark of eternal fire burning within our breast.
“You Matter to Him,” Conference Report, October 2011.
Origin Story
Your origin story is divine, and so is your destiny. You left heaven to come here, but heaven has never left you! You are anything but ordinary.
“Do Your Part with All Your Heart,” Conference Report, October 2025.
God Is Not Waiting to Love You
God loves you this very day and always. He is not waiting to love you until you have overcome your weaknesses and bad habits. He loves you today with a full understanding of your struggles.
“Living the Gospel Joyful,” Conference Report, October 2014.
Though We Are Incomplete
God does not look on the outward appearance. … Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God’s love encompasses us completely.
“The Love of God,” Conference Report, October 2009.
A VIP to Our Heavenly Father
Every person we meet is a VIP to our Heavenly Father. Once we understand that, we can begin to understand how we should treat our fellowmen.
“You Are My Hands,” Conference Report, April 2010.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes on Jesus Christ and the Atonement
— Dieter F. Uchtdorf teaches that Jesus Christ and His Atonement are the essential “root” of our faith, providing a certain “point of safe return” regardless of our past. He emphasizes that grace is a divine endowment of strength that heals our “soul-sickness” and enables our eternal progression.
A Lively Hope
Because of the sacrifice of our beloved Redeemer, death has no sting, the grave has no victory, Satan has no lasting power, and we are “begotten … again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
Truly, the Apostle Paul was correct when he said we can “comfort one another with these words.”
“The Gift of Grace,” Conference Report, April 2015.
Salvation Cannot Be Bought
Salvation cannot be bought with the currency of obedience; it is purchased by the blood of the Son of God.
“The Gift of Grace,” Conference Report, April 2015.
Healing Power
During … my childhood I played in bombed-out houses and grew up with the ever-present consequences of a lost war and the awareness that my own country had inflicted terrible pain on many nations during the horrific World War II.
The good news that Jesus Christ has made the perfect Atonement for mankind, redeeming all from the grave and rewarding each individual according to his or her works, was the healing power which brought hope and peace back into my life.
“The Global Church Blessed by the Voice of the Prophets,” Conference Report, October 2002.
Accept the Blessings of the Atonement of Jesus Christ
Faith in Jesus Christ and a testimony of Him and His universal Atonement is not just a doctrine with great theological value. … The powers of reason may be used to try to understand this gift, but those who feel its effects most deeply are those who are willing to accept its blessings, which come from a pure and clean life of following the path of true repentance and living the commandments of God.
“The Fruits of the First Vision,” Conference Report, April 2005.
The Grace of God
The grace of God does not merely restore us to our previous innocent state. If salvation means only erasing our mistakes and sins, then salvation—as wonderful as it is—does not fulfill the Father’s aspirations for us. His aim is much higher: He wants His sons and daughters to become like Him.
With the gift of God’s grace, the path of discipleship does not lead backward; it leads upward.
“The Gift of Grace,” Conference Report, April 2015.
One Piece at a Time
The truth is, those who diligently seek to learn of Christ eventually will come to know Him. They will personally receive a divine portrait of the Master, although it most often comes in the form of a puzzle—one piece at a time. Each individual piece may not be easily recognizable by itself; it may not be clear how it relates to the whole. Each piece helps us to see the big picture a little more clearly. Eventually, after enough pieces have been put together, we recognize the grand beauty of it all. Then, looking back on our experience, we see that the Savior had indeed come to be with us—not all at once but quietly, gently, almost unnoticed.
“Waiting on the Road to Damascus,” Conference Report, April 2011.
Elder Uchtdorf Quotes on Serving Others and “Lifting Where You Stand”
— Service is presented as a transformative act that cures personal sorrow and pride. Dieter F. Uchtdorf teaches that no calling or task is too small and that true greatness in God’s kingdom is found in being a servant to all.
Lift Where You Stand
Some years ago in our meetinghouse in Darmstadt, Germany, a group of brethren was asked to move a grand piano from the chapel to the adjoining cultural hall. … As they stood around the piano, uncertain of what to do next, a good friend of mine, Brother Hanno Luschin, spoke up. He said, “Brethren, stand close together and lift where you stand.” … Although it may seem simple, lifting where we stand is a principle of power.
“Lift Where You Stand,” Conference Report, October 2008.
Serve Without Fanfare
God’s greatest reward goes to those who serve without expectation of reward. It goes to those who serve without fanfare; those who quietly go about seeking ways to help others; those who minister to others simply because they love God and God’s children.
“The Greatest among You,” Conference Report, April 2017.
Lose Ourselves in the Service of Others
As we lose ourselves in the service of others, we discover our own lives and our own happiness.
“Happiness, Your Heritage,” Conference Report, October 2008.
The Spirit of God
The more we are filled with the Spirit of God, the more we extend ourselves to others. We become peacemakers in our homes and families, we help our fellowmen everywhere, and we reach out in merciful acts of kindness, forgiveness, grace, and long-suffering patience.
“The Way of the Disciple,” Conference Report, April 2009.
You Are My Hands
A story is told that during the bombing of a city in World War II, a large statue of Jesus Christ was severely damaged. When the townspeople found the statue among the rubble, they mourned because it had been a beloved symbol of their faith and of God’s presence in their lives.
Experts were able to repair most of the statue, but its hands had been damaged so severely that they could not be restored. Some suggested that they hire a sculptor to make new hands, but others wanted to leave it as it was—a permanent reminder of the tragedy of war. Ultimately, the statue remained without hands. However, the people of the city added on the base of the statue of Jesus Christ a sign with these words: “You are my hands.”
There is a profound lesson in this story. … As we emulate His perfect example, our hands can become His hands; our eyes, His eyes; our heart, His heart.
“You Are My Hands,” Conference Report, April 2010.
Follow Christ
To follow Christ is to become more like Him. It is to learn from His character. As spirit children of our Heavenly Father, we do have the potential to incorporate Christlike attributes into our life and character.
“Christlike Attributes—the Wind beneath Our Wings,” Conference Report, October 2005.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes on Authentic Discipleship vs. Outward Appearance
— President Uchtdorf frequently warns against “Potemkin villages“—attempts to appear more righteous or successful than one truly is. He emphasizes that God looks at the heart and values genuine effort over perfect performance.
Service Center
The Church is not an automobile showroom—a place to put ourselves on display so that others can admire our spirituality, capacity, or prosperity. It is more like a service center, where vehicles in need of repair come for maintenance and rehabilitation.
“On Being Genuine,” Conference Report, April 2015.
The Widow’s Mite
To the Lord, the value of the donation was measured not by the effect it had on the treasury but by the effect it had on the heart of the donor. In praising this faithful widow, the Savior gave us a standard to measure our discipleship in all of its many expressions. Jesus taught that our offering may be large or it may be small, but either way, it must be our heartfelt all.
“Our Heartfelt All,” Conference Report, April 2022.
The Gospel Helps Us to Become Good
Over the years, I have come to the realization that I am far more impressed by those wonderful and blessed souls who are truly good and without guile. And isn’t that what the gospel is all about and does for us? It is the good news, and it helps us to become good.
“Lord, Is It I?”, Conference Report, October 2014.
A Race of Endurance
A friend of mine recently wrote to me, confiding that he was having a difficult time keeping his testimony strong and vibrant. He asked for counsel.
I wrote back to him and lovingly suggested a few specific things he could do that would align his life more closely with the teachings of the restored gospel. To my surprise, I heard back from him only a week later. The essence of his letter was this: “I tried what you suggested. It didn’t work. What else have you got?”
Brothers and sisters, we have to stay with it. We don’t acquire eternal life in a sprint—this is a race of endurance. We have to apply and reapply the divine gospel principles. Day after day we need to make them part of our normal life.
Too often we approach the gospel like a farmer who places a seed in the ground in the morning and expects corn on the cob by the afternoon.
“The Way of the Disciple,” Conference Report, April 2009.
Patience
Patience is not passive resignation, nor is it failing to act because of our fears. Patience means active waiting and enduring. It means staying with something and doing all that we can—working, hoping, and exercising faith; bearing hardship with fortitude, even when the desires of our hearts are delayed. Patience is not simply enduring; it is enduring well!
“Continue in Patience,” Conference Report, April 2010.
Willingness to Be Directed by God
To be effective Church leaders, we must learn this critical lesson: leadership in the Church is not so much about directing others as it is about our willingness to be directed by God.
“The Greatest among You,” Conference Report, April 2017.
Priesthood and Pride
We are servants of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We are not given the priesthood so that we can take our bows and bask in praise. We are here to roll up our sleeves and go to work.
“Pride and the Priesthood,” Conference Report, October 2010.
The Center of Our Testimony
We have to be careful that the center of our testimony is not located in the social dimension of the Church community or the wonderful activities, programs, and organizations of our wards and stakes. All of these things are important and valuable to have, but they are not enough. Even friendship is not enough. …
Christlike attributes are the basics. They are the fundamental principles that will create “the wind beneath our wings.”
“Christlike Attributes—the Wind beneath Our Wings,” Conference Report, October 2005.
Things That Matter Most
The tendency to focus on the insignificant at the expense of the profound happens not only to pilots but to everyone. We are all at risk. The driver who focuses on the road has a far greater chance of arriving at his destination accident free than the driver who focuses on sending text messages on his phone. … Pause for a moment and check where your own heart and thoughts are. Are you focused on the things that matter most?
“We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down,” Conference Report, April 2009.
Humility
Some suppose that humility is about beating ourselves up. Humility does not mean convincing ourselves that we are worthless, meaningless, or of little value. Nor does it mean denying or withholding the talents God has given us. We don’t discover humility by thinking less of ourselves; we discover humility by thinking less about ourselves. It comes as we go about our work with an attitude of serving God and our fellowman.
“Pride and the Priesthood,” Conference Report, October 2010.
Sacrifice and Consecration
Sacrifice and consecration are two heavenly laws that we covenant to obey in the holy temple. These two laws are similar but not identical. … Very few of us will ever be asked to sacrifice our lives for the Savior. But we are all invited to consecrate our lives to Him.
“Our Heartfelt All,” Conference Report, April 2022.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes on Faith and Doubt
— Dieter F. Uchtdorf encourages a proactive approach to belief, famously urging individuals to “first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith.” He teaches that faith is a daily practice that requires intentional effort to seek spiritual light.
Testimony
Our motives and thoughts ultimately influence our actions. The testimony of the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is the most powerful motivating force in our lives. … A testimony provides proper perspective, motivation, and a solid foundation on which to build a life of purpose and personal growth.
“The Power of a Personal Testimony,” Conference Report, October 2006.
The Purpose of Faith
No, the purpose of faith is not to change God’s will but to empower us to act on God’s will. Faith is trust—trust that God sees what we cannot and that He knows what we do not. Sometimes, trusting our own vision and judgment is not enough.
“Fourth Floor, Last Door,” Conference Report, October 2016.
Doubt Your Doubts
There are few members of the Church who, at one time or another, have not wrestled with serious or sensitive questions. … Please, first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith. We must never allow doubt to hold us prisoner and keep us from the divine love, peace, and gifts that come through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
“Come, Join with Us,” Conference Report, October 2013.
They Have Simply Made Mistakes
Some struggle with unanswered questions about things that have been done or said in the past. We openly acknowledge that in nearly 200 years of Church history—along with an uninterrupted line of inspired, honorable, and divine events—there have been some things said and done that could cause people to question. …
And, to be perfectly frank, there have been times when members or leaders in the Church have simply made mistakes. There may have been things said or done that were not in harmony with our values, principles, or doctrine.
I suppose the Church would be perfect only if it were run by perfect beings. God is perfect, and His doctrine is pure. But He works through us—His imperfect children—and imperfect people make mistakes.
“Come, Join with Us,” Conference Report, October 2013.
Skepticism
Skepticism is easy—anyone can do it. It is the faithful life that requires moral strength, dedication, and courage. Those who hold fast to faith are far more impressive than those who give in to doubt when mysterious questions or concerns arise.
“Be Not Afraid, Only Believe,” Conference Report, October 2015.
Truth Exists Beyond Belief
The thing about truth is that it exists beyond belief. It is true even if nobody believes it.
“What Is Truth?”, BYU Speeches, January 13, 2013.
Elder Uchtdorf Quotes on Adversity and Resilience
— Dieter F. Uchtdorf teaches that our reaction to adversity, rather than the trial itself, defines our life’s story and develops a depth of character. He emphasizes that stumbles are universal, but our destiny is determined by our willingness to rise, learn from failure, and move forward with faith.
Reaction to Adversity
It is your reaction to adversity, not the adversity itself, that determines how your life’s story will develop.
“Your Happily Ever After,” Conference Report, April 2010.
Rise Up and Move Forward
Our destiny is not determined by the number of times we stumble but by the number of times we rise up, dust ourselves off, and move forward.
“You Can Do It Now!”, Conference Report, October 2013.
Stronger Than You Realize
My dear friends and brethren, no matter how many times you have slipped or fallen, rise up! Your destiny is a glorious one! Stand tall and walk in the light of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ! You are stronger than you realize. You are more capable than you can imagine.
“You Can Do It Now!”, Conference Report, October 2013.
Work
Work is an antidote for anxiety, an ointment for sorrow, and a doorway to possibility.
“Two Principles for Any Economy,” Conference Report, October 2009.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes on Love and Families
— Dieter F. Uchtdorf emphasizes that love is the guiding compass of discipleship, famously teaching that in family relationships, love is “spelled T-I-M-E”. He encourages families to replace pride with charity, emphasizing consistent, intentional effort and small acts of service to build eternal bonds.
Love is Spelled “Time”
In family relationships, love is really spelled t-i-m-e, time. Taking time for each other is the key for harmony at home.
“Of Things That Matter Most,” Conference Report October 2010.
Consistent Influence
Another strength you have, as a parent, is the opportunity for daily, ongoing influence. … You can be the most constant, steady influence in your child’s life. … The consistency of small and simple things, day after day, nourishes your children much better than an occasional flood.
“Jesus Christ Is the Strength of Parents,” Conference Report, April 2023.
Teach By Example
It has been said, “Teaching by example is one way to teach.” I would say, “Teaching by example is the best way to teach.”
Please teach our young people by your example of being a temple-worthy priesthood holder. Your good life, your love for God and fellow men, your applied testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ will be a convincing power to our youth, and it will help them to see the end from the beginning.
“See the End from the Beginning,” Conference Report, April 2006.
President Uchtdorf Quotes on Gratitude
— Dieter F. Uchtdorf teaches that gratitude is a purifying “disposition” that should remain independent of our current situation. He encourages Latter-day Saints to focus on being thankful in all circumstances rather than waiting for our problems to be solved.
The Parent of All Virtues
Gratitude is a catalyst to all Christlike attributes! A thankful heart is the parent of all virtues.
“Grateful in Any Circumstances,” Conference Report, April 2014.
A Tapestry of Gratitude
The happiest people I know are not those who find their golden ticket; they are those who, while in pursuit of worthy goals, discover and treasure the beauty and sweetness of the everyday moments. They are the ones who, thread by daily thread, weave a tapestry of gratitude and wonder throughout their lives. These are they who are truly happy.
“Forget Me Not,” Conference Report, October 2011.
Genuine Love and Gratitude
Our obedience to God’s commandments comes as a natural outgrowth of our endless love and gratitude for the goodness of God. This form of genuine love and gratitude will miraculously merge our works with God’s grace. Virtue will garnish our thoughts unceasingly, and our confidence will wax strong in the presence of God.
“The Gift of Grace,” Conference Report, April 2015.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes About Joseph Smith and Church History
— President Uchtdorf frames the Restoration as an “ongoing process” rather than a past event. He anchors Church history in the First Vision, teaching that Joseph Smith’s testimony serves as a “constant compass” to guide our modern, personal discovery of truth.
How the First Vision Blesses Lives
This is how Joseph Smith’s First Vision blesses our own personal lives, the lives of families, and eventually the whole human family: we come to believe in Jesus Christ through the testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith.
“The Fruits of the First Vision,” Conference Report, April 2005.
Helping Others Gain a Testimony of Jesus Christ
Looking back, I am grateful for so many friends who helped me in my youth to gain a testimony of the restored Church of Jesus Christ. First I exercised simple faith in their testimonies, and then I received the divine witness of the Spirit to my mind and to my heart. I count Joseph Smith among those whose testimony of Christ helped me to develop my own testimony of the Savior.
“The Fruits of the First Vision,” Conference Report, April 2005.
Ongoing Revelation
Continuing revelation is a fundamental feature of this faith. Joseph Smith’s first prayer is a powerful testimony of this. Revelation is a constant compass that keeps us always true to the will and the faith of our Heavenly Father.
“Faith of Our Father,” Conference Report, April 2008.
President Uchtdorf Quotes on Conversion, Pioneers, and Church Membership
— Dieter F. Uchtdorf teaches that we are all pioneers in our own spheres, emphasizing that authentic Church membership is less about perfect performance and more about a heartfelt desire to “come and belong.”
The Restoration is an Ongoing Process
Sometimes we think of the Restoration of the gospel as something that is complete, already behind us—Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon, he received priesthood keys, the Church was organized. In reality, the Restoration is an ongoing process; we are living in it right now.
“Are You Sleeping through the Restoration?”, Conference Report, April 2014.
Spiritual Ancestry
I have no ancestors among the 19th-century pioneers. However, since the first days of my Church membership, I have felt a close kinship to those early pioneers who crossed the plains. They are my spiritual ancestry, as they are for each and every member of the Church, regardless of nationality, language, or culture. They have established not only a safe place in the West but also a spiritual foundation for the building of the kingdom of God in all the nations of the world.
“The Global Church Blessed by the Voice of the Prophets,” Conference Report, October 2002.
Present-day Pioneers
With the same joy, I claim the legacies of today’s modern-day Church pioneers who live in every nation and whose own stories of perseverance, faith, and sacrifice add glorious new verses to the great chorus of the latter-day anthem of the kingdom of God.
“Faith of Our Father,” Conference Report, April 2008.
Invite to Come and See
Some days after World War II, my grandmother was standing in line for food when an elderly single sister with no family of her own invited her to sacrament meeting in Zwickau, East Germany. My grandmother and my parents accepted the invitation. They went to church, felt the Spirit, were uplifted by the kindness of the members, and were edified by the hymns of the Restoration. My grandmother, my parents, and my three siblings were all baptized. I had to wait two years because I was only six.
How grateful I am for a spiritually sensitive grandmother, teachable parents, and a wise, white-haired, elderly single sister who had the sweet boldness to reach out and follow the Savior’s example by inviting us to “come and see” (see John 1:39).
“The Opportunity to Testify,” Conference Report, October 2004.
Lifted Us Above Our Daily Misery
We were living in the rubble of postwar Germany with a devastating feeling of hopelessness and darkness about our future. In the middle of this despair, my family learned about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the healing message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. This message made all the difference; it lifted us above our daily misery. Life was still thorny and the circumstances still horrible, but the gospel brought light, hope, and joy into our lives.
“Have We Not Reason to Rejoice?,” Conference Report, October 2007.
Zion
In those years, many Saints left Europe to go to Zion. But then the Brethren taught us that Zion could be anywhere around the globe if we were willing to establish it. The Saints had faith and stayed, and Zion increased in beauty and holiness.
“The Only True and Valid Basis,” Conference Report, October 1994.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes About Christmas and Advent
— Dieter F. Uchtdorf describes the Christmas season as a time of “matchless hope” that reminds us of the Savior’s birth and His “good news of great joy” for all people. He invites us to move beyond the superficial aspects of the holiday to find the “higher joy” that comes from drawing nearer to God and bringing light to those around us.
Ponder the Real Meaning of Christmas
When we prepare for Christmas by pondering its real meaning, we prepare to experience the Christ and His message.
“Seeing Christmas through New Eyes,” 2010 Christmas Devotional.
Celebrating Advent
While it’s true that we can find materialism and anxiety in Christmas, it is also true that if we have eyes to see, we can experience the powerful message of the birth of the Son of God and feel the hope and peace He brings to the world. …
As an old family tradition, our family has always celebrated the Advent of Christmas. Starting on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, we would get together on Sunday afternoons, light wax candles on a pine Advent wreath, enjoy delicious homemade cookies, and read passages of scriptures that center on the Christ.
We read accounts of ancient prophets who yearned for the coming of the Messiah. We read scriptures that proclaim the wondrous story of His birth. Each week by singing beautiful Christmas songs and having a fun time together, our family tried to refocus on the true meaning of the season. I must admit that delicious hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and tasty homemade cookies helped a lot to catch the joyful feeling of the Christmas season!
While celebrating the Advent of Christmas is not part of all cultures around the globe, there is something we can learn from this widespread Christian tradition. Perhaps even this year we might carve from our busy schedules some time to study and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas?—personally and as families.
“Seeing Christmas through New Eyes,” 2010 Christmas Devotional.
Looking to the Future
While the Christmas season is typically a time for looking back and celebrating the birth of our Lord, it seems to me that it should also be a time of looking to the future. Let us look forward. Let us prepare for that blessed day when He will come again. Let us be as wise as those ancients who watched for His coming. As His disciples, let us have in our hearts and minds the words of John: “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
“Seeing Christmas through New Eyes,” 2010 Christmas Devotional.
Gratitude for Jesus Christ
I pray that during this season and always, we will see the purity of the story of the Savior’s birth and feel sincere gratitude for His life, teachings, and saving sacrifice for us. May this gratitude cause us to renew our determination to follow Him. May it also lead us to draw closer to our family, our church, and our fellowmen. And may we look steadfastly forward to that blessed day when the resurrected Christ will walk the earth again as our Lord, our King, and our blessed Savior.
“Seeing Christmas through New Eyes,” 2010 Christmas Devotional.
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About President Uchtdorf
Dieter F. Uchtdorf is a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a former member of the First Presidency. Known globally for his compassionate and optimistic perspective, Elder Uchtdorf offers a unique lens on faith informed by his experiences as a post-war refugee and international aviation pilot. This collection of Dieter F. Uchtdorf quotes reflects his dedication to simplifying the path of discipleship through consistent, small acts of devotion.
Further Reading
Explore more From the Desk articles about general authority quotes.
- Dallin H. Oaks Quotes
- D. Todd Christofferson Quotes You’ll Use Again and Again
- The Best David A. Bednar Quotes
- Elder Gérald Caussé: Inspiring Quotes From a New Apostle
- Wilford Woodruff Quotes: A Prophet’s Insights
Dieter F. Uchtdorf Quotes
Read some of the major sources of Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s quotes and information:
- Dieter F. Uchtdorf (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
- Dieter F. Uchtdorf General Conference Addresses (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
- Dieter F. Uchtdorf BYU Speeches (BYU)
