M. Russell Ballard Quotes

Powerful M. Russell Ballard for Daily Growth

About M. Russell Ballard

M. Russell Ballard, born on June 30, 1928, in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a prominent religious figure known for his service as an apostle in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Raised in a devout Mormon family, Ballard's religious upbringing significantly influenced his life. He served a mission for the LDS Church in England from 1947 to 1949. After returning, he attended Brigham Young University and later graduated from the University of Utah Law School. In 1952, Ballard married Barbara Thompson, with whom he would have six children. His professional career began as a lawyer in Salt Lake City before he was called to full-time church service in various capacities. Ballard's significant contributions to the LDS Church include serving as president of the Northern Europe Area (1975–1982), the Pacific Area (1982–1986), and the North America West Area (1986–1994). He was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, one of the church's highest governing bodies, in 1985. As an apostle, Ballard has authored numerous books and articles, including "In His Image: A Latter-day Saint Understanding of God Our Eternal Father" and "The Happiest People I Know." He is known for his leadership, dedication to missionary work, and commitment to the welfare of families. Throughout his life, Ballard has emphasized the importance of faith, family, service, and personal growth. His quotes reflect these values, such as "Service is the rent we pay for being here," and "The greatest challenge facing our families today is the erosion of the eternal values that make us happy." Today, Ballard continues to serve in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, offering guidance and wisdom to Latter-day Saints worldwide.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Happiness is not just a matter of individual volition; it is a product of a balanced and harmonious life."

This quote suggests that happiness is not solely within an individual's control, but rather it results from living a well-balanced and harmonious life. In other words, to achieve true happiness, one must strive for harmony in various aspects of their life - personal relationships, career, spirituality, and self-care. It implies that happiness is not just about personal choices or actions, but also about creating a balanced life where all these areas work together in synergy.


"The true measure of our worth as individuals will be determined in large part by how we love and serve others."

This quote by M. Russell Ballard emphasizes that an individual's value or worth is primarily defined by their capacity to love and serve others. It suggests that altruism, compassion, and selflessness are essential qualities that contribute significantly to one's character and moral stature. The more we extend kindness, empathy, and aid to those around us, the greater our personal worth becomes in both a social and philosophical context. In essence, Ballard encourages us to prioritize others' needs alongside our own, making our lives meaningful through acts of love and service.


"True disciples of Jesus Christ are always reaching out to those around them, offering the Savior's love and service."

This quote emphasizes that true followers of Jesus Christ embody His compassionate nature. They extend His love and service to those around them, demonstrating a genuine concern for others' well-being. In essence, it suggests that genuine disciples of Christ are actively involved in helping and uplifting their fellow beings.


"The greatest challenge facing us today is the same one that has faced all generations: to find and follow the will of the Lord in our lives."

This quote suggests that, across different eras and societies, people have consistently grappled with identifying and adhering to God's will in their personal lives. The implication is that this challenge remains a universal and timeless one, as it requires individuals to seek guidance, introspection, and wisdom to make decisions that align with their faith or spiritual beliefs. In other words, understanding and executing the divine purpose for our lives continues to be the most complex and significant task faced by people today, just as it has been in past generations.


"We must constantly seek to grow spiritually and become more like the Lord Jesus Christ, for it is only as we do so that we will be truly happy."

This quote by M. Russell Ballard emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth in achieving true happiness. It suggests that striving to emulate the qualities and characteristics of Jesus Christ is a means to personal fulfillment and joy. In essence, he's encouraging individuals to continually work on their inner selves, aiming to align with divine principles, as this process will lead them towards a more satisfying and meaningful life.


It may not always be easy, convenient, or politically correct to stand for truth and right, but it is the right thing to do. Always.

- M. Russell Ballard

Always, May, Correct, Convenient

We have taken a giant step forward in correcting some of the misconceptions people have about the church. I think that we've made a lot of friends.

- M. Russell Ballard

Think, Some, I Think, Misconceptions

I believe that every human soul is teaching something to someone nearly every minute here in mortality.

- M. Russell Ballard

Soul, Here, Nearly, Human Soul

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