If We Forgive Others, Even before They Repent, God Will Likewise Forgive Us – Wilford Woodruff (July 2, 1839)
Ever keep in exercise the principles of mercy & be ready to forgive our brother on the first intimations of repentance & asking forgiveness & should we even forgive our brother or our enemy before they ask it our heavenly father would be equally as merciful unto us
Discourse, 2 July 1839, as Reported by Wilford Woodruff–B, p. 86, The Joseph Smith Papers.
Must Be Patient with Faults of Others — History of the Church (October 29, 1842)
After conversing with several of the brethren, and shaking hands with numbers who were very much rejoiced to see their Prophet again, I returned home; but soon afterwards went over to the Store, where a number of brethren and Sisters were assembled who had arrived this morning from the neighborhood of New York. Long Island &c After Elders Taylor, Woodruff and Samuel Bennett, had addressed the brethren and Sisters, I spoke to them at considerable length, showing them the proper course to pursue, and how to act in regard to making purchases of land &c. I shewed them that it was generally in consequence of the brethren disregarding or disobeying Council. that they became dissatisfied and murmured, and many when they arrived here were dissatisfied with the conduct of some of the Saints because every thing was not done perfectly right, and they get mad and thus the devil gets advantage over them to destroy them. I told them I was but a man, and they must not expect me to be perfect; if they expected perfection from me, I should expect it from them, but if they would bear with my infirmities, and the infirmities of the brethren, I would likewise bear with their infirmities. I told them it was likely I would have again to hide up in the woods, but they must not be discouraged but roll on the City, the Temple &c When my enemies take away my rights, I will bear it and keep out of the way, but if they take away your rights I will fight for you. I blessed them and departed.
Discourse given on October 29, 1842. Joseph Smith, History, 1838–1856, volume D-1 [1 August 1842–1 July 1843], pp. 1413-1414, The Joseph Smith Papers.
We Must Love & Forgive Both Enemies & Friends – Willard Richards (July 9, 1843)
Joseph remarced that all was well between him and the heavens that he had no emnity against any one. and as the prayer of Jesus. or his pattern so prayed Joseph. Father forgive me my trespasses. as I forgive those who trespass. against me. for I freely forgive all men.—— if we would secure & cultivate the love of others we must love others. even our enemies— as well as friends
Discourse, 9 July 1843, as Reported by Willard Richards, p. 300, The Joseph Smith Papers.
