The Word of Wisdom: Love for Those who don't follow It

The Word of Wisdom is one of the defining features of the Church. I find it funny how many people nearly hate us because of it. They assume that because it's a standard required for baptism into the Church, we think that every who uses Alcohol, Tobacco, Coffee, or Tea is one of the vilest of sinners...

"Sure, I'll have a drink... grape juice please!"

That's not true. We don't determine the worth of souls based on what they drink or smoke. I have many family members who smoke and drink and my love for them is unaffected by my personal beliefs.

We invite people who join the Church to live the Word of Wisdom because it enhances how they feel the Holy Ghost and can free them from physically and spiritually dangerous side effects. The appropriate approach should be to invite anyone who feels uncomfortable using these substances to try living life without them. The promise we offer is not just that people can live without these things, but that they can experience a stronger connection with God in the process.

Every once in awhile, someone gets excited about the Word of Wisdom and blunders over the boundaries of friendly conversation. Please, don't mind the mess, all of us are a divine work a progress and have a LOT of work to go (including me). Hopefully, as the Church continues to grow and flourish around the world, more and more people will be able to better understand the Word of Wisdom. This is my fervent prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.