When we have knowledge and wisdom, we are better able to discern truth from error and make good choices. Education is also a key to encouraging personal growth, preparing for suitable employment, building strong families, serving in the Church, and making a meaningful contribution to the society in which we live.
“We live in a world where knowledge is developing at an ever-accelerating rate. Drink deeply from this ever-springing well of wisdom and human experience.”
—Gordon B. Hinckley, Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley (1997), 171
To become self-reliant in education, we should:
- Study the scriptures and other good books.
- Improve our ability to read, write, and do basic mathematics.
- Learn to communicate effectively with others.
- Obtain formal education or equivalent training necessary for employment.
Take advantage of opportunities to gain more knowledge.
Related Articles from Church Sources
“The acquisition of knowledge is a lifelong, sacred activity, pleasing to our Father in Heaven and favored by His servants.
“ ‘He who invades the domain of knowledge must approach it as Moses came to the burning bush; he stands on holy ground; he would acquire things sacred,’ said President J. Reuben Clark Jr. (1871–1961), a member of the First Presidency, speaking at the inauguration of a new president of Brigham Young University. ‘We must come to this quest of truth—in all regions of human knowledge whatsoever, not only in reverence, but with a spirit of worship.’
“As Latter-day Saints we believe in education, and we have a philosophy about how and why we should pursue it. Our religious faith teaches us that we should seek learning by the Spirit and that we have a stewardship to use our knowledge for the benefit of mankind.”
—Dallin H. Oaks, “Learning and Latter-day Saints,” Liahona, Apr. 2009
Rise Up to Education
“I call your attention to another matter that gives me great concern. In revelation the Lord has mandated that this people get all the education they can. He has been very clear about this. But there is a troubling trend taking place. Elder Rolfe Kerr, Commissioner of Church Education, advises me that in the United States nearly 73 percent of young women graduate from high school, compared to 65 percent of young men. Young men are more likely to drop out of school than young women.
“Approximately 61 percent of young men enroll in college immediately following high school, compared to 72 percent for young women.
“In 1950, 70 percent of those enrolled in college were males, and 30 percent were females; by 2010 projections estimate 40 percent will be males, and 60 percent will be females.
“Women have earned more bachelor’s degrees than men every year since 1982 and more master’s degrees since 1986.
“It is plainly evident from these statistics that young women are exceeding young men in pursuing educational programs. And so I say to you young men, rise up and discipline yourself to take advantage of educational opportunities. Do you wish to marry a girl whose education has been far superior to your own? We speak of being ‘equally yoked.’ That applies, I think, to the matter of education.”
—Gordon B. Hinckley, “Rise Up, O Men of God,” Liahona, Nov. 2006