Fortress of Covenants: Temple Attendance as Spiritual Armor

We live in a time of increasing spiritual conflict. The noise and distractions of the world clamor for our attention, seeking to sever our connection to the divine and obscure the prophetic voice. It's easy to feel overwhelmed, to feel that the demands of daily life leave no room for sustained spiritual effort. Yet, the Lord’s servants have recently illuminated a powerful truth: the temple—and the covenants we keep there—is a crucial line of defense.

Consider the analogy offered in the linked video: in warfare, the first priority is to disrupt communication lines. Satan's strategy mirrors this. He aims to sever our connection to the prophets, to the scriptures, and ultimately, to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. But what is the antidote? A strengthened and maintained connection, fortified by covenants.

President Nelson’s repeated counsel to prioritize temple attendance isn't a suggestion; it’s a declaration of spiritual necessity. As President Oaks testified, “Every time you were the least serving the temple, you were armed.” Armed! This isn't merely about feeling good; it's about possessing a spiritual defense against the attacks of the adversary. Angels are dispatched to our defense, standing as watchmen and guides, a reality far exceeding our mortal comprehension. To feel that “seventy” sense – that overwhelming realization of divine truth – is a testament to the Spirit’s witness.

The principle of the law of witnesses reinforces this testimony. President Oaks echoes President Nelson’s message, solidifying the prophetic direction. Elder Anderson's suggestion to post these reminders – “protect yourself with regular temple attendance” – is a practical application. It's a constant, visible call to action when weariness and the demands of family life threaten to crowd out sacred priorities.

We often rationalize neglecting covenants. “I’m too tired,” we tell ourselves. “I don’t have time.” But in those moments of doubt, the prophet’s counsel becomes a lifeline, a reminder that this isn’t about what *we* feel like doing, but about obeying divine commandment for our own protection and the furtherance of God's work. The sacrament, the temple, the covenants—these are not optional extras; they are the very foundation upon which our spiritual resilience is built.

Remember the words of Isaiah: “And in that day shall the Lord of hosts be a defence unto them, and this shall be done in the midst of Zion, and thou shalt see it” (Isaiah 29:8). This promise is contingent upon our faithfulness, our willingness to draw near unto the Lord and keep His commandments. The temple is a place where that defense is actively bestowed.

Let us examine our own lives. Are we prioritizing the covenants that protect us? Are we actively cultivating a connection to the prophetic voice? Are we recognizing the spiritual battle being waged around us and arming ourselves accordingly?