Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith

Section Five (1842-1843) | Most Injury Comes from Little Evils

1The servants of the Lord are required to guard against those things that are calculated to do the most evil. The little foxes spoil the vines--little evils do the most injury to the Church. If you have evil feelings, and speak of them to one another, it has a tendency to do mischief. These things result in those evils which are calculated to cut the throats of the heads of the Church.

2When I do the best I can--when I am accomplishing the greatest good, then the most evils and wicked surmisings are got up against me. I would to God that you would be wise. I now counsel you, that if you know anything calculated to disturb the peace or injure the feelings of your brother or sister, hold your tongues and the least harm will be done. The Female Relief Society have taken a most active part in my welfare against my enemies, in petitioning to the governor in my behalf.

3These measures were all necessary. Do you not see that I foresaw what was coming, beforehand, by the spirit of prophecy? All these movements had an influence in my redemption from the hand of my enemies. If these measures had not been taken, more serious consequences would have resulted. I have come here to bless you. The Society have done well: their principles are to practice holiness.

4God loves you, and your prayers in my behalf shall avail much: let them not cease to ascend to God continually in my behalf.