Ezra Taft Benson: 'Would we not do well to have the pleasing of God as our motive rather than to try to elevate ourselves above our brother and outdo another?'

Would we not do well to have the pleasing of God as our motive rather than to try to elevate ourselves above our brother and outdo another?

In his thought-provoking quote, Ezra Taft Benson, the 13th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, urges us to reconsider our motives in order to experience a more fulfilling and virtuous existence. He suggests that instead of seeking to outshine or surpass others, we should focus on pleasing God as our ultimate motivation. This simple but profound advice encourages a shift in perspective – from a mindset centered around competition and comparison to one based on alignment with a higher power. Benson's words remind us of the importance of humility, service, and genuine connection with both God and our fellow human beings.The wisdom encapsulated in this quote lies in its ability to expose the pitfalls of a society driven by individualistic pursuits and the relentless pursuit of personal gain. In a world that often rewards and glorifies selfish ambition, Benson's words act as a compass, guiding us toward a more meaningful and virtuous path. His suggestion to prioritize the pleasing of God resonates with the idea that selflessness and empathy should underpin our motivations, decisions, and actions.To add an unexpected philosophical concept to this discussion, let us consider the concept of existentialism. At first glance, the quote may seem contradictory to the existentialist philosophy, which emphasizes individual freedom, authenticity, and personal responsibility. However, a deeper analysis reveals a profound harmony between these ideas. By redirecting our focus towards pleasing God rather than outdoing others, we are prompted to reject the notion of living solely for ourselves and instead embrace an existence that takes into account the wellbeing of others.In existentialism, the concept of the "Other" plays a significant role. The Other refers to our recognition of the existence and value of fellow human beings, acknowledging that their perspectives, needs, and desires are just as valid as our own. Benson's quote beautifully aligns with this fundamental existentialist principle by calling us to transcend the ego's inclination to compare and compete, and instead cultivate an attitude of respect and compassion towards our fellow human beings.When we seek to elevate ourselves above others, we create a hierarchy that fosters division, envy, and an unhealthy sense of superiority. In contrast, orienting our motives towards the pleasing of God allows us to focus on personal growth, caring for others, and recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals. Ultimately, this mindset shift not only benefits our own spiritual and emotional well-being but also contributes to the creation of a more harmonious and compassionate society.By embracing Benson's advice, we can witness a transformation within ourselves and our relationships. Our motivations will no longer be rooted in comparison and competition but instead in fostering unity and uplifting others. We will find joy and fulfillment in the simple act of serving and loving one another, free from the burdensome pursuit of external validation or material success.In conclusion, Ezra Taft Benson's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of aligning our motives with a higher purpose. By focusing on pleasing God rather than trying to outdo others, we can transcend the ego's desire for superiority and instead embrace a life of humility, empathy, and service. This shift in perspective not only resonates with existentialist principles but also provides a powerful antidote to the pervasive culture of comparison and competition that plagues our society. Let us heed Benson's wise words and strive to make the pleasing of God our ultimate motivation, fostering a more compassionate, connected, and fulfilling existence for ourselves and those around us.