Seeking spiritual nourishment is vital, as Christ Himself urged us to pursue that which truly sustains our souls. When a church or denomination fails to offer such sustenance—whether due to watered-down teachings, a lack of reverence in its duties, or an environment that stifles genuine spiritual growth—it may be a sign to seek a different pasture. Christ calls His flock to receive abundant life, not to languish in spiritual stagnation or starvation. If the teachings are diluted, the priesthood taken lightly, the members of the flock neglected, or the reverence and awe of the Godhead diminished, the faithful are left wanting in essential graces and truth.
“Tremendous happiness and peace of mind are the results of loving service to others. Nobody can live fully and happily who lives only unto himself or herself.” – Gordon B. Hinckley
Gordon B. Hinckley, the 15th president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasised that true happiness and inner peace are found through serving and caring for others. In this single quote, he conveyed the idea that a self-centred life, focused solely on one’s own desires and needs, cannot lead to genuine fulfilment. Instead, living a life of love and service towards others brings deeper meaning, joy, and a sense of wholeness. Essentially, President Hinckley suggested that we are made to live in connection with and service to those around us, and that this selflessness is key to a fulfilling and contented life.
If we are neglecting to feed others real spiritual food, only providing the crumbs from the grand spiritual table of the Lord, we are putting not only ourselves in a precarious position, but also those to whom we have been assigned. When our actions are not in line with the teachings of the Bible and the Book of Mormon, as well as the Church, we are failing ourselves and those around us.
Finding a church where scriptural doctrine is preserved, the Sacrament and the word of God are reverently administered, and the teachings lift the heart and soul to Heavenly Father is not only prudent but necessary. Just as we would not remain at a table where the food is spoiled, we should not remain in a place where our souls are deprived of the rich spiritual nourishment that the Church is meant to provide. This search must be approached with discernment and sincere prayer, because it is not merely about personal preference but about finding a community that faithfully upholds the teachings of Christ and His apostles in both word and deed.
