The Mind and Will of the Lord: Indexed Discourses of Heber J. Grant Speaking in General Conferences

Elder Heber J. Grant became president of the Church just 12 days after the close of World War I, served through the Great Depression, and died just six days after the conclusion of World War II in Europe in 1945. His influence in the Church transcends the three most critical events in the twentieth century. He helped guide the Saints through the excesses of the "Roaring Twenties," pleading with them at that time to get out and to stay out of debt and to keep the Word of Wisdom. During the Great Depression, when 25% of all wage earners were out of work, he advised the Saints to use their money on home production, thereby keeping the money at home so that it could profit all; and during World War II the message was to serve when called but not to hate the enemy. "In their work of destruction," servicemen were told, "they will be striking at their brethren," but this "will not be held against them" as they were not responsible for the conditions preparatory to the conflict (The Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day Saints Conference Reports 1942-1945, April 4, 1942, pp. 2-11).

The two messages that dominated his ministry as president were the Word of Wisdom and tithing. With respect to the former he once said: "I believe beyond the shadow of a doubt that there are hundreds and thousands of Latter-day Saints who, but for the obeying of the Word of Wisdom, would not be here today. When they have been attacked by serious diseases and have been in a critical condition physically, having obeyed that law, having fulfilled an irrevocable law of God, he was bound to bestow the promised blessing, and they have come to the afflicted ones" (Wallis, Improvement Era, Nov. 1936, p. 697). He added coca cola to the list of substances that the Saints were to avoid then followed with a general guideline for all things taken into the body, "The Lord does not want you to use any drug that creates an appetite for itself." (See Address 20, paragraphs 6-9 of this book.)

On the subject of tithing no new doctrine was offered, mostly just clarification, but no other illustration is better suited to teaching the principle than his ten apple story given in his last conference address (See Address 118, paragraphs 8-10 of this book). He died the following month having served 26 1/2 years — longer than any other president except Brigham Young. He was also the last polygamist president of the church having had three wives at one time.

He was perhaps the greatest example of endurance and persistence as well. He struggled in three areas: baseball, penmanship, and singing. His remarks permeate with his concern to excel in these areas. One can feel the struggle as he speaks to these subjects and the joy received as he conquers each area.