Righteous Leadership & Meekness

In modern society, leadership is often associated with charisma, wealth, or the ability to intimidate. But the Lord provides us a stunningly different definition. The revelation highlights the danger of trying to "exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness."

I consider that phrase deeply challenging. It means that the way I interact with others—my spouse, my children, my colleagues—is a direct reflection of my spiritual standing.

The cornerstone of this divine leadership style is meekness. Meekness is not weakness; it is strength under control. Joseph Smith, despite enduring intense persecution, was taught that true power must be maintained through long-suffering and gentleness.

If my heart is "set so much upon the things of this world and aspires to the honors of men," then I’ve immediately forfeited my spiritual authority, no matter my title. Righteous leadership requires a constant inward check against vanity and pride.

That line deeply chills me. It’s a powerful lesson in accountability. It means that the instant I step outside of God’s law and eternal principles, I sever my connection to the divine source of power. It doesn’t matter what ordination or title I hold; if the foundation of my actions is not virtue, the power dissolves. This rule applies equally in the spiritual vs. temporal realms; whether I’m managing finances (D&C 120) or blessing others, my heart must be pure.

Revelation's Role

How do we know when we are exercising unrighteous dominion versus appropriate stewardship? That’s where revelation comes in.

This entire section is a result of Joseph Smith’s earnest plea for understanding during a time of immense suffering. The principles revealed here—that righteousness is the only key to power—were not intuited; they were given by divine instruction.

Revelation acts as our corrective lens. It helps us see past the flawed models of the world. It reminds me that I must rely on continuing guidance from the Holy Ghost to ensure my motivations are pure and my actions stem from charity, not compulsion. Revelation is the mechanism by which eternal principles are applied to my contemporary challenges.

Overcoming Evil

When I face contention, misunderstanding, or outright opposition, how am I supposed to react? Joseph Smith certainly faced the pinnacle of opposition and persecution. The Lord’s instruction for overcoming evil is radically countercultural.

We are to conquer through virtue. We must hold fast to the divine mandates of persuasion, long-suffering, gentleness, meekness, and unfeigned love.

I’ve learned that true victory isn't about crushing opposition; it's about converting hearts. When I treat others with kindness and respect—even those who disagree with me—I am using the tools of heaven:

The "sharpness" is momentary, directed by the Spirit, and immediately followed by an increase of love. The goal is always reconciliation, not domination.

Spiritual Dominion & God’s Law

The ultimate takeaway from these powerful verses is the distinction between earthly ambition and spiritual dominion. Earthly dominion is about controlling external circumstances; spiritual dominion is about controlling myself.

When I operate according to the eternal principles laid out by the Lord—when I let my virtue garnish my thoughts unceasingly—then I gain dominion over my weaknesses and temptations.

The promise is magnificent:

I believe that the reward for living according to God’s law is not just eternal life but immediate, profound spiritual growth. When I prioritize love over force, accountability over vanity, and long-suffering over anger, I step into the eternal pattern of leadership.

My Continuing Study

Doctrine and Covenants 120, alongside its surrounding revelations, is more than just a historical text written by Joseph Smith during a difficult crisis. It is a timeless manual for anyone who holds stewardship, whether over a family, a congregation, or simply their life.

I find myself constantly returning to these verses, asking, "Am I leading with gentleness?" Am I using persuasion over compulsion? Is my priesthood power being exercised righteously?

These are challenging questions, but the promised reward—the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost—is worth the eternal effort.

What have you learned?

1. What’s so special about Doctrine & Covenants 120 and 121?

2. How does D&C 121 define righteous leadership?

3. Why does D&C 121 say "Amen to the priesthood" of some leaders?

4. How do I apply D&C 121 in everyday life?

5. What’s the most significant lesson from these sections?