Let us conclude this chapter with that wonderful passage from the
Doctrine & Covenants which gives us the word of the Lord on this matter
of controlling others:
"Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they
not chosen?
"Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world,
and aspire to the honors of men, that they do not learn this one
lesson--
"That the rights of the Priesthood are inseparably connected with the
powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled
nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.
"That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we
undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain
ambitions, or to exercise control, or dominion, or compulsion, upon
the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness,
behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is
grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the Priesthood, or the
authority of that man.
"Behold! ere he is aware, he is left unto himself, to kick against
the pricks; to persecute the Saints, and to fight against God.
"We have learned, by sad experience, that it is the nature and
disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little
authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise
unrighteous dominion.
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