Elder Mark D. Eddy, a General Authority Seventy, spoke during the Sunday afternoon session of October 2022 general conference. He spoke of the virtue, or power, available through the word of God. The following is a summary of what he said.
Elder Eddy’s conference talk summary
Throughout scripture are examples of the miraculous blessings poured out upon those who chose to try the virtue of the word of God in their lives.
First, Alma reminded his people of how the Lord delivered their fathers and how “they were in the midst of darkness” but “their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word” (Alma 5:7).
“Does your soul ache for illumination? If so, please try the virtue of the word of God.”
Second, Ammon referenced how many of their Lamanite brethren were “loosed from the pains of hell” and “brought to sing the song of redeeming love” because “of the power of his word” (Alma 26:13).
There are many who yearn for someone to be brought to sing redeeming love. “In all our efforts, let us remember to try the virtue of the word of God, which is in us.”
Third, Helaman teaches the word of God, “which is quick and powerful,” will “divide asunder” the methods of the devil (Helaman 3:29-30).
“Are you seeking to cut through all the cunning and the snares and the wiles of the devil so prevalent in the philosophies of our day? … Please try the virtue of the word of God.”
Notable quotes from Elder Eddy’s conference talk
“Thus we learn that there is virtue in the words of ancient and modern prophets precisely because their words are the Lord’s words.”
“I plead with you to experience the virtue of the word of God, particularly through the Book of Mormon, every day of your life.”
“I testify that our Heavenly Father has given us the word because He loves us perfectly and wants each of us to return home to live with Him forever.”
See the full text of Elder Eddy’s talk: ‘The Virtue of the Word’
Who is Elder Eddy?
- Elder Mark D. Eddy was sustained as a General Authority Seventy in April 2022 general conference.
- He was “absolutely smitten” with Annette “Annie” Allen after the two dated in high school but the two remained “just friends” until he returned from his mission to the Dominican Republic. They were married in the Provo Utah Temple on Aug. 13, 1994. They have six children.
- He started to develop ulcers on his mission from stress until a companion taught him how to laugh and experience joy while still being a devoted, consecrated missionary.
