Because there is a war going on between good and evil, sometimes I wonder what Relief Society is doing about it. Is it okay to talk about issues that are controversial during class or activities? Not to be controversial, but to become aware of the evil around us and know how to stand for truth. Do we worry about offending anyone who may think differently? I guess my real question is what does it look like when Relief Society stands for truth and righteousness? Because that is what we should be doing, right?

We cannot deny that the family is under attack. Not only are worldly ideals tempting us, but our husbands and children are being led away from our safe havens. Don’t we want to fight for our loved ones?

My original thoughts for this post was to speak out against abortion, but the more I think about it the more I see that everything righteous is being challenged. And I just wonder if we are making ourselves aware enough. Is it our responsibility to defend truth?

Russell M. Nelson said, “Man-made rules have now legalized that which has been forbidden by God from the dawn of time!” (“Abortion: An Assault On the Defenseless,” Ensign, Oct 2008.)

Dallin H. Oaks stated in a talk, “The purpose of mortal families is to bring children into the world, to teach them what is right, and to prepare all family members for exaltation in eternal family relationships.” (“Weightier Matters,” BYU Speeches, Feb. 9, 1999.)

And he said just recently, “Mortal life is sacred to us. Our commitment to God’s plan requires us to oppose abortion and euthanasia.” (“Truth and the Plan,” Ensign, Nov 2018.)

Eternal truths are under attack and I guess my concern is do we personally understand these eternal truths well enough to defend them? If we were ever challenged, would we know how to share what we believe resolutely and with a firm testimony?

And I guess another question might be is it appropriate to discuss these things in Relief Society?

I find it interesting that other religions are very vocal about right and wrong. People of other faiths give their lives to God and look for opportunities to speak truth. The early women of the church, living in the Salt Lake Valley, were also vocal when it came to women’s right to vote. Having the vote meant they could have a voice in living their religion without fear of encroachment. Our day is similar. We are not being persecuted for our beliefs (yet!), but we ought to be aware of how the laws of morality are affecting our world and ultimately will affect our families.

The responsibility we have, I believe, is to defend truth. Of course, we’re not going to go looking for a fight, but if we were ever put in a situation, would we be prepared to defend the gospel of Jesus Christ, His doctrine, and His truth in a logical testimonial?

There has been a lot of talk about abortion lately. With Mother’s Day, having just been celebrated, I hope all mothers might take a second to think about what they would say to a pro-choice advocate. Would it be compelling? Would scriptures and quotes come to mind, ready to defend with truth? Would we feel secure in our position?

As mothers, I wonder if we take our role seriously enough when it comes to defending truth and protecting the family?