Topic

Knowledge

Knowledge and education are two of the most powerful things we can acquire in this life. God has asked us to gain as much knowledge as we can because it is the only thing we can carry with us into the next life. Additionally, when we pursue knowledge, we can often use it to help others who may need assistance. Opportunities to learn are endless, and while God doesn’t expect us to know or study everything, He does expect us to put forward our best effort to learn what we can and study what we are interested in.

Temporal knowledge and education are incredible assets that help prepare young adults to support themselves and their families and enable people to reach their dreams and aspirations. However, it is not the only type of knowledge God wants us to acquire. The gospel of Jesus Christ helps us know how to return to live with God again, but He doesn’t expect us to follow Him blindly. Our Heavenly Father has provided a way for us to know whether or not the teachings of Jesus Christ are true. When we read the scriptures, exercise our faith, and pray with a pure heart, we can receive an answer from the Holy Ghost to let us know if what we are learning is true. This knowledge of the gospel is essential, and when paired with our temporal education, it can help increase our faith in God.

Heavenly Father wants us to learn both “by study and by faith,” incorporating elements of spiritual knowledge and our secular education in everything we do. God would not have us shun the study of science and literature in favor of only studying scripture and attending church. He wants us to have a healthy balance of both so that we can see how they complement each other. All knowledge is important to our progression in this life, both spiritual and temporal.

Inspiring Shorts

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Academic Discipleship

Steven C. Harper, Professor of Church History and Doctrine

Steven C. Harper June 8, 2021

Liz Wiseman January 26, 2016

Deborah Dean November 27, 2007

Allen Palmer May 23, 2006

R. Steven Turley July 27, 2004

John D. Lamb January 15, 2002

Elaine S. Marshall May 25, 1998

Martha Peacock May 21, 1996

Marion Bennion March 26, 1974

Peggy S. Worthen, wife to the president of Brigham Young University.

Peggy S. Worthen | September 6, 2022

Taking charge of our own testimony means partnering with the Lord to steadily grow and develop ourselves to become more refined and faithful.

devotional 2022

Rachel L. Wadham | June 28, 2022

To cultivate godliness within ourselves, we must develop wisdom, curiosity, and patience in mortality to prepare for what is to come.

devotional 2022

Elder Carlos A. Godoy of the Presidency of the Seventy

Carlos A. Godoy | March 12, 2019

Elder Godoy teaches us that we need to take advantage of learning opportunities now so we can serve the Lord faithfully after we leave BYU.

devotional 2019

J. Scott Miller | October 2, 2018

Exercising humility and honesty when seeking answers to life's questions cultivates within us a humble uncertainty which expands our understanding.

devotional 2018

LeGrand R. Curtis Jr. | January 16, 2018

Both heart and mind can be instruments for the Holy Ghost to teach us God's will, if we are humble enough to listen for His counsel.

devotional 2018

Robert P. George | April 23, 2015

Robert P. George stresses the need for both faith and reason in universities, in the creation, preservation, transmission, and appropriation of knowledge.

commencement 2015

Trenton L. Hickman | June 3, 2014

The companionship of the Holy Ghost is essential in our quest for knowledge.

devotional 2014

John D. Lamb | May 20, 2014

When we think of all we need to know, temporally and spiritually, it can be daunting. However, knowledge is also a great source of empowerment and comfort.

forum 2014

Andrew S. Gibbons | January 25, 2011

Many desirable skills can be acquired in this life, and each takes diligent practice to master. As Saints, our skills play a crucial role in God's plan.

devotional 2011

Shawn W. Miller | August 3, 2010

We are here on earth to learn, so put effort into your learning. Be curious, and advance your knowledge as much as you can.

devotional 2010

Cecil O. Samuelson | August 13, 2009

A rather common fallacy is that with graduation, one has finished her or his education. To be prepared for what's ahead, we never stop learning and growing.

commencement 2009

David A. Bednar, member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

David A. Bednar | April 24, 2008

A BYU education ought to instill in you a love of learning that will help you in further education, career, and eternal personal development.

commencement 2008

Alvin F. Sherman Jr. | January 30, 2007

You will embark on many important pilgrimages throughout your life, but the most crucial will be the pilgrimage that leads to gain a testimony of Christ.

devotional 2007

Timothy J. Powers | October 25, 2005

The examples of three former BYU swimmers who made a difference in their respective spheres can inspire us to do the same.

devotional 2005

Lance B. Wickman | August 17, 2004

In the end, the only lasting manifestation of embracing the Word of Wisdom—of following the Man in the white robe—is to be found in the “great treasures of knowledge,” the “hidden treasures,” that are the mysteries of godliness and the “fulness of the glory of the Father” and of the Son.

devotional 2004

David B. Haight | August 16, 2001

BYU graduates should live the principles of the gospel, be good citizens, and be examples as they go out into the world.

commencement 2001

Mary Williams | July 17, 2001

The key to eternal life is to know God, and to know Him in a way that changes us. How can we get to know God? Professor Mary Williams shares some insights.

devotional 2001

Richard G. Scott | January 23, 2001

Following the guidance of the Holy Ghost and seeking strength from eight pure sources will improve your life and connect you to God.

devotional 2001

Richard N. Williams | February 1, 2000

The gospel of Jesus Christ redefines faith, reason, knowledge, and truth and helps us avoid worldly issues.

devotional 2000

Kevin J Worthen | July 21, 1998

Knowledge deepens our charity, while charity, in turn, deepens our knowledge. The relationship between the two is crucial to a true education.

devotional 1998

Dennis B. Neuenschwander | May 19, 1998

You should study Church doctrine to know what you believe, but equally important is believing what you know, which requires trusting spiritual experiences.

devotional 1998

Truman G. Madsen | September 20, 1994

How do we know that God exists? Truman G. Madsen poses questions, philosophical truths and “religious undergirding experiences” to explore the topic.

devotional 1994

James E. Faust | August 23, 1994

Part of the uniqueness of BYU is its ability to complement secular knowledge with spiritual truth. Elder Faust pays tribute to President Hunter.

university conference 1994

L. Tom Perry | October 12, 1993

The season of judgment will come to each of us. As we prepare to harvest a good and fulfilling life, let us store up knowledge, honesty, and service.

devotional 1993

Richard G. Scott | August 17, 1993

The Lord will help us to acquire spiritual knowledge and revelation if we seek to understand, value, use, remember, and expand it.

devotional 1993

Elder Neal A. Maxwell, member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ.

Neal A. Maxwell | August 18, 1992

The gospel is inexhaustible because there is not only so much for us to know, but there is also so much for us to become.

devotional 1992

Robert D. Hales | March 15, 1988

Intelligence and knowledge are only stepping-stones to the greater qualities of wisdom and understanding, which help us use our learning to bless others.

devotional 1988

George P. Lee | May 17, 1983

As you seek valuable secular education, remember that your spiritual education must take first priority in order to secure eternal knowledge and blessings.

devotional 1983

Henry B. Eyring—second counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Henry B. Eyring | March 1, 1983

No matter how much the world changes, we can succeed in discovering truth—in both secular and spiritual matters—if we are willing to work for it.

devotional 1983

Spencer W. Kimball | September 9, 1980

Make the most of your BYU education. Aquire not only an academic literacy but a spiritual one that will bless your family and the world.

devotional 1980

James M. Paramore | May 2, 1978

Constant study of the gospel will help you in developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to be guided by the Spirit in following the Savior.

devotional 1978

Marion G. Romney | March 15, 1977

At the dedication of the enlarged Harold B. Lee library, President Marion G. Romney shares insights about the importance of knowledge and truth.

devotional 1977

Eliot Butler | September 14, 1976

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

forum 1976

John H. Vandenberg | February 1, 1972

They key to learning is recognizing that knowledge comes from God. John H. Vandenberg speaks of the advances we have now that one day seemed only fictional.

devotional 1972

Loren C. Dunn | July 16, 1968

No experience compares to searching for the truth. We can come to know of the truth of the gospel by faithfully experimenting upon the words of Christ.

devotional 1968

Mark E. Petersen | June 7, 1960

In practical as well as in spiritual affairs, have the wisdom to listen to the voice of reason that will guide you to make smart decisions.

devotional 1960

Bruce R. McConkie | April 23, 1957

The kingdom of God has been promised to those who are meek, humble, and faithful. Are we preparing ourselves to receive it?

devotional 1957

Joseph Fielding Smith - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Joseph Fielding Smith | June 18, 1956

Knowledge of countries and kingdoms can be gained from reading scripture and other writings. It is valuable for our spiritual growth.

devotional 1956

Joseph Fielding Smith | June 23, 1954

The ordinances of the gospel have the power to save and exalt us. Thus, when we understand and receive these ordinances, we have acquired knowledge that saves.

devotional 1954

Harold B. Lee - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Harold B. Lee | June 16, 1953

"The glory of God is intelligence." Without knowledge of Christ, His gospel, His Church, His ordinances, and His love, we are unprepared for salvation.

devotional 1953