“All These Things Shall Be Added Unto You” [1]
I am so grateful for Monica. I love her. She loves you and joyfully sacrifices to serve you. I love you too! During our fall 2024 devotional, I talked about three important principles for us here at BYU–Hawaii: purpose, consecration, and excellence. I am grateful for the message that Monica just shared about the importance of knowing your purpose and aligning your daily actions with that purpose.
Today, my message to you is about the opportunities and blessings that consecrated living brings into our lives.
Elder D. Todd Christofferson taught, "To consecrate is to set apart or dedicate something as sacred, devoted to holy purposes. True success in this life comes in consecrating our lives—that is, our time and choices—to God’s purposes. In so doing, we permit Him to raise us to our highest destiny." [2]
Considered the example of our Savior, Jesus Christ. The perfect example of consecration. I know that He is our Savior, and I know that He consecrated His life for us. I am so grateful for that.
BYU–Hawaii was established by and is sustained by consecration.
When we choose to attend or work at BYU–Hawaii, we make additional commitments, commitments to consecrate our actions here to fully exemplify the Honor Code and its principles and strive to fulfill the mission of the university. These commitments protect us individually and collectively, prepare us for a successful future, and strengthen the university in beautiful and meaningful ways.
Most of you know this and are committed to living this way because you understand the blessings. You chose BYU–Hawaii because of your desire to live this consecrated life. Some of you are still learning, like I was as a new freshman at BYU.
This was way back in 1996. Not long into my first semester, I received a call from the Honor Code Office asking me to come in for a meeting. I had no idea what they wanted to discuss, but I scheduled an appointment and went. When I arrived, the staff member asked if I had shaved within 24 hours of taking my last test in the testing center. I told him I was only shaving about once a week, since I was sixteen years old and didn’t have much facial hair. He explained that I had committed to being clean-shaven and that I hadn’t been following that commitment.
At the time, I was annoyed, confused and even a little offended. I thought he was taking this too seriously. I couldn’t help but laugh to myself, thinking “I hardly need to shave at all. They’re overreacting.” I also wondered, “with everything going on with other students, they are worried about me and my facial hair?!”
Ultimately, the Honor Code Office wasn’t the problem. I was. I was struggling to fully embrace something that I chose to accept and committed to follow. This happens to even the best of us, so I guess I am in good company.
Consider that prophets like Moses, Jonah, and Lehi made commitments to follow the Lord and occasionally struggled to resist the temptations of the natural man. At times they complained and even hesitated to follow through on their commitments.
Each of them repented when reminded of their responsibilities and the associated blessings. For the record, I repented too—from that point on I shaved every day until I graduated. I have to admit, shaving still isn’t my favorite thing, but the blessings that have been brought into my life through the gospel and the Church Educational System are undeniable.
Needing to be reminded about our commitments is a natural outcome of challenging ourselves to be better. We all make mistakes. We all fall short of our commitments at time. We all need to repent. President Nelson has instructed us to repent daily. [3] Sometimes, we need others to remind us of our commitments.
Some may ask, as I did 30 years ago, “why is it such a big deal whether I shave or not?” Some of you may ask, “Why does it matter if I wear short shorts, or other clothing that doesn’t meet the standard?”
The answer is simple: as members of the BYU–Hawaii community, our dress and grooming is an outward demonstration of our personal integrity.
Elder Christofferson’s talk at our last general conference was particularly powerful to me. He reminded us of the Lamanites, who, after their conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ, committed to “lay down the weapons of their rebellion.” [4] He pointed out that those weapons are both literal and figurative and shared an invitation with each of us, saying, “May we bury—very, very deep—any element of rebellion against God in our lives and replace it with a willing heart and a willing mind.” [5]
He then suggested that, “We might ask ourselves what we could do to follow this pattern, to ‘lay down the weapons of [our] rebellion,’ whatever they may be, and become so ‘converted [to] the Lord’ that the stain of sin and the desire for sin are taken from our hearts and we never will fall away.” [6]
Each day, we wake up and make decisions on how we will dress and care for ourselves before we leave the house. When we decide not to shave, or to wear clothing that doesn’t meet the standards, we are consciously deciding to use our dress and grooming as “weapons of rebellion.” These simple daily choices are a public display, either of one’s personal integrity, or one’s lack thereof.
The Honor Code has been put in place by living prophets to protect and support the sacred mission of the schools in the Church Educational System. Considering the Honor Code as a whole, you are expected to exemplify these principles and expectations, not live on the edges of them.
I am reminded of President Spencer W. Kimball who shared, “an oft-told story of three men who applied for the job of driving the coaches for a transportation company. The successful applicant would be driving over high, dangerous and precipitous mountain roads. Asked how well he could drive, the first one replied: ‘I am a good, experienced driver. I can drive so close to the edge of the precipice that the wide metal tire of the vehicle will skirt the edge and never go off.’ ‘That is good driving,’ said the employer. The second man boasted, ‘Oh, I can do, better than that. I can drive so accurately that the tire of the vehicle will lap over, half of the tire on the edge of the precipice, and the other half in the air over the edge.’ The employer wondered what the third man could offer, and was surprised and pleased to hear, ‘Well, sir, I can keep just as far away from the edge as possible.’ It is needless to ask which of the men got the job." [7]
Part of our progression in mortality is learning not to live our lives “near the edge of the cliff.” It can be tempting to develop our capacity to “drive near the edge of the cliff,” especially when we are seeking the approval of the world. I invite each of you to lay down the weapons of your rebellion and strive to embrace your covenants and commitments more fully. Please, help others do the same, and let’s move forward together, unified in our commitments to God and to each other.
The CES Honor Code
Now, let’s review the Honor Code together, with a little commentary. As a reminder, this is the CES honor code, and it is identical for all of the universities.
As faculty, administration, staff, and students voluntarily commit to conduct their lives in accordance with the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, they strive to maintain the highest standards in their personal conduct regarding honor, integrity, morality, and consideration of others. By accepting appointment, continuing in employment, being admitted, or continuing enrollment, each member of the campus communities personally commits to observe the CES Honor Code approved by the Board of Trustees:
- Maintain an Ecclesiastical Endorsement, including striving to deepen faith and maintain gospel standards. [8]
Elder Ronald A. Rasband posted on his Instagram account just last week timely advice when he wrote: “Give the Lord equal time…. you cannot put your testimony on the shelf during your college years.”
Elder Rasband then promised that, “as you give the Lord equal time in the pursuit of higher learning, the Spirit will enhance your academic pursuits, you will find you have extra time and capacity for your courses, and doors will be opened for you that might have otherwise been closed.” [9]
I want to share a brief personal experience with this I spent, Monica and I spent the first six years of our marriage in St. Louis, Missouri, where we attended a ward that gathered young couples and professionals who were going to graduate school in law and business and medicine at two elite universities. I saw over and over and over those who had the most time to fulfill their ministering assignments, to fulfill their callings, to sacrifice for others to live the gospel of Jesus Christ, were invariably the most successful in their studies. It was amazing to watch and shocking. How could you be number one in your class at Washington University Medical and the person who is always there to help and serve. Elder Rasband is teaching us how. When we give the Lord his time first, we will be blessed.
Next Principle,
- Be honest. [10]
This means fulfilling your commitments. It also refers to academic honesty—doing your own work and using generative AI in acceptable and responsible ways.
- Live a chaste and virtuous life, including abstaining from sexual relations outside marriage between a man and a woman. Living a chaste and virtuous life also includes abstaining from same-sex romantic behavior. [11]
President Nelson said, “Few things will complicate your life more quickly than violating this divine law [of chastity].” [12] There is always room for repentance here, but there is no place for those who openly defy the Lord’s law of chastity at BYU–Hawaii.
- Abstain from alcoholic beverages, tobacco, tea, coffee, vaping, marijuana, and other substance abuse. [13]
Substance abuse and addiction are dangerous. They can often lead to people being put into risky situations and are often associated with serious mental illness. You are not being a kind or loving friend if you let someone use these substances or help them cover it up. If you know someone struggling with these things, please help them find support. Getting them to talk to Counseling Services and their bishop may save their life.
- Participate regularly in Church services. [14]
You should attend the ward you are assigned to attend, for both hours, every week, and participate fully. No more getting lost after the first hour, couldn't find the classroom. You can do this! It used to be three hours. Serve diligently in your callings. Give the Lord equal time.
- Respect others, including the avoidance of profane and vulgar language. [15]
Be kind; be good to others. You will have a better future if you do. Respecting others also includes understanding personal boundaries and getting consent for every interaction. If you feel your boundaries have been violated, please make sure to report to the Title IX Office, the Office of Honor, your bishop, and law enforcement if the law has been broken.
- Obey the law and follow campus policies, including the CES Dress and Grooming standards. [16]
This means following the law with respect to all things, including drivers’ licenses and federal law with respect to visa regulations. Students who violate the terms of their student visas jeopardize not only their own standing, but the whole university.
When it comes to the Dress and Grooming standards, we expect you to exemplify the principles, not live near the edges. The minimum expectations are that men will be clean-shaven with short and well-kept hair and that everyone will wear clothing that would cover temple garments, whether you are endowed or not.
Finally, you each committed to:
- Encourage others in their commitment to comply with the Honor Code and Dress and Grooming standards. [17]
Everyone single one of us as part of the Honor Code is committed to help others, follow the Honor Code. Whose responsibility is it? Every single one of you and me. How can you do this? Let me suggest a few simple ways.
First, be a joyful example of striving to do your best in your own actions and appearance. When others see you living up to your commitments, they’re more likely to do the same.
Second, when you see that someone seems to be struggling, do what you can to help them understand why these standards matter. Remind them of the blessing it is to be here, the sacrifices made for us, and the blessings promised when we do what’s right.
Third, offer practical support by encouraging peers to connect with campus resources like Counseling Services or the Office of Honor. You might also suggest they meet with their bishop for additional guidance.
Finally, encourage accountability within your friend groups and student apartments. It’s all about helping each other stay on track in upholding the values that keep our campus and community strong.
As you encourage others, be careful and thoughtful and listen to the spirit. We can find ways to teach, love, and support, without creating additional and undue shame, defensiveness, or resentment.
The Office of the Student Life Vice President and Office of Honor will be working hard to give you these same reminders. If you are struggling with some aspect of the Honor Code, you should expect to be invited to a meeting with the Office of the Student Life Vice President. The purpose of the meeting will be simply to remind you of your commitments, like I was many years ago at BYU, and give you a chance to renew your resolve to fulfill them. A visit with the Office of Honor, and potential disciplinary consequences will come if you demonstrate that you are not sincere in your commitment or are simply unwilling to live by the standards.
Conclusion
Consecrated living brings safety and blessings as we navigate this life. President Nelson taught us that, “Once we make a covenant with God, we leave neutral ground forever.”
He continued, saying, “God will not abandon His relationship with those who have forged such a bond with Him. In fact, all those who have made a covenant with God have access to a special kind of love and mercy.” [18]
In Matthew 6:33 we read Christ’s own words about consecrating our lives to Him and the blessings that follow. It reads, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [19]
In Mosiah 2:21-22, King Benjamin teaches:
21 I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning… with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.
22 …he has promised you that if ye would keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land; and he never doth vary from that which he hath said; therefore, if ye do keep his commandments he doth bless you and prosper you. [20]
Teaching us about Christ words, King Benjamin helps us understand that when we consecrate our lives to God, we will be blessed beyond anything we could earn or deserve. This includes following His commandments and honoring the other commitments we have made, such as living the honor code.
In our day, President Nelson reminds us that we are part of God’s kingdom, His beloved children, with a special place in His heart and His plan. He further explains what will happen when we seek first the kingdom of God. He said, “As you do, I promise that you will experience spiritual growth, freedom from fear, and a confidence that you can scarcely imagine now. You will have the strength to have a positive influence far beyond your natural capacity. And I promise that your future will be more exhilarating than anything you can presently believe.” [21]
We are blessed to live in a truly special time. The kingdom of God is established throughout the world with strength and numbers that have never existed previously. The Lord's Church has resources that are, again, unmatched in history. President Nelson reminded us to don't miss out, don't overlook the majesty of this moment. [22] Each day that I have the blessing to spend on this campus I am in awe of the resources the Lord provides for His work here. BYU–Hawaii is a special place, an amazing university, with incredible resources to support our students financially, spiritually, academically, and socially.
All of this is possible because Latter-day Saints are making and keeping covenants with God, practicing consecration today. So many of you show your gratitude to God and your fellow Latter-day Saints with your dedication to your covenants and commitments, and to your spiritual and academic growth. You know that living this way brings you great joy and success. You are incredible examples. Thank you so much!
It is heartbreaking when people choose to squander this opportunity by living on the edges of, or completely outside of their covenants and commitments. Please do not do this, or let others do this. If this is you, the time to change is now. God loves each of you. I love each of you. I promise you that when we align our will and actions with God, He will bless us.
Consecration brings joy, safety, and focus. Consecration empowers us to be, as President David O. McKay said, “men and women whose influence will be felt for good towards the establishment of peace internationally.” [23] As a child of God, child of the covenant, disciple of Jesus Christ, and member of the BYU–Hawaii community these blessings and promises are for you.
In closing, I testify to you that these promises are true. God and His plan for us are real. Our Savior, Jesus Christ, loves us, and has overcome death and sin for us. Joseph Smith was a prophet of God as President Nelson is today. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true and holds the authority for us to make covenants and receive blessings from God. I am deeply grateful to be part of this university with you. I share my love for you, and for our God and our Savior Jesus Christ.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Notes:
[1] Matthew 6:33
[2] D. Todd Christofferson, “Reflections on a Consecrated Life,” Ensign or Liahona, October 2010, 16
[3] Russell M. Nelson, "We Can Do Better and Be Better," Ensign or Liahona, April 2019, 69
[4] Alma 23:7
[5] D. Todd Christofferson, “Burying Our Weapons of Rebellion,” Ensign or Liahona, October 2024, 29
[6] D. Todd Christofferson, “Burying Our Weapons of Rebellion,” Ensign or Liahona, October 2024, 27
[7] Spencer W. Kimball, The Miracle of Forgiveness [1969]
[8] Church Educational System Honor Code
[9] Ronald A. Rasband, @ronaldarasband, (January 7, 2025), Give the Lord equal time, Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ronaldarasband/p/DEh1M6ITNW2/?img_index=1
[10] Church Educational System Honor Code
[11] Church Educational System Honor Code
[12] Russell M. Nelson, “Think Celestial!,” Ensign or Liahona, October 2023, 118
[13] Church Educational System Honor Code
[14] Church Educational System Honor Code
[15] Church Educational System Honor Code
[16] Church Educational System Honor Code
[17] Church Educational System Honor Code
[18] “The Everlasting Covenant” [digital-only article] Liahona, October 2022, Gospel Library
[19] Matthew 6:33
[20] Mosiah 2:21-22
[21] Russell M. Nelson, “Choices for Eternity” [worldwide devotional for young adults, May 15, 2022], Gospel Library
[22] Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again," Ensign or Liahona, October 2024, 121
[23] David O. McKay, “Groundbreaking & Dedication of CCH/BYU–Hawaii” [Brigham Young University–Hawaii, February 12, 1955], speeches.byuh.edu/foundational-speech