Remembering President Nelson Through His Words
Image source: ChurchofJesusChrist.Org Media Library
President Russell M. Nelson’s prophetic ministry was filled with invitations to rise higher, love deeper, and see farther. Again and again, he pointed all to Jesus Christ and reminded us that our choices here and now shape our future. His counsel was both bold and tender, urging all to anchor themselves in truth. Among his many teachings, four stand out as guiding lights for our day.
Think Celestial!
Lisa DeLong (American, born 1974)
Star Chart (2019)
Gold leaf, ink, and handmade watercolor on paper, 50 × 50 inches
Used with artist’s permission
October 2023 General Conference, “Think Celestial!”
President Nelson’s plea to “think celestial!” invites us to view every choice through the lens of eternity. He taught that this shift in perspective changes how we treat others, how we view hardships, and how we live day to day. “When you make choices, I invite you to take the long view—an eternal view. Put Jesus Christ first because your eternal life is dependent upon your faith in Him and in His Atonement.”
2. Be a Peacemaker.
Brandt Bernston (American, 1978)
Prophetic Peroration (2024)
Oil, 20”x20”
Used with artist’s permission
April 2023 General Conference, “Peacemakers Needed”
In a world filled with contention, President Nelson called on us to embody the Savior’s role as a peacemaker. “Contention is a choice. Peacemaking is a choice.” He reminded us that disciples of Jesus Christ are called to rise above anger and division, modeling patience, compassion, and forgiveness. “As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are to be examples of how to interact with others—even when we disagree. … As we do our part, conflicts can be settled.”
3. Root Out Racism.
Emma Taylor (American, born 1982)
Love One Another
Acrylic and oil on panel, 55 x 43 inches
Used with artist’s permission
October 2020 General Conference, “Let God Prevail”
President Nelson taught that racism has no place in the gospel of Jesus Christ or His Church. He spoke plainly: “I grieve that our Black brothers and sisters the world over are enduring the pains of racism and prejudice. Today I call upon our members everywhere to lead out in abandoning attitudes and actions of prejudice.” His prophetic call was not just to avoid racism, but to actively root it out and heal divides through Christlike love.
4. Let God Prevail.
Rose Datoc Dall (Filipina-American, born 1968)
The Veil is Beginning to Burst (2021)
42" x 42", oil on panel
Used with artist’s permission
October 2020 General Conference, “Let God Prevail”
One of President Nelson’s most memorable invitations is to “let God prevail” in our lives. He taught that this phrase represents a willingness to surrender our will to the Lord’s, allowing Him to guide our choices and shape our futures. “Are you willing to let God prevail in your life? Are you willing to let God be the most important influence in your life? … When your greatest desire is to let God prevail, many decisions become easier.”
5. The Answer is Always Jesus Christ.
Brooke Malia Mann (American)
They Did All Eat (2015)
Pencil and Gouache on Illustration Board, 10 × 10 inches
Used with artist’s permission
“The Answer Is Always Jesus Christ,” April 2023 General Conference
In a closing General Conference address, President Nelson bore direct, simple testimony: “Learn more about His Atonement, His love, His mercy, His doctrine, and His restored gospel of healing and progression. Turn to Him! Follow Him!”
A Prophetic Legacy
President Nelson’s words still encourage us to think celestial, choose peace, reject prejudice, yield our hearts to God, and follow Jesus Christ. These truths remain a steady guide for anyone striving to find peace and discipleship in a turbulent world.
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