Notwithstanding My Weakness

by Neal A. Maxwell

As the prophet Nephi concluded his writings and history of his people, he stated that he was not "mighty in writing," but that "I, Nephi, have written what I have written, and I esteem it as of great worth, and especially unto my people." Then he concluded, "Ye shall know that I have been commanded of Christ to write these things, notwithstanding my weakness." (2 Nephi 33.) Feelings of weakness and inadequacy are common to almost all mortals, as they strive for eventual perfection. In Notwithstanding My Weakness, author Neal A. Maxwell presents a positive course for those who need encouragement and reassurance and who are striving to put off the natural man and become saintlike. "In these times of hopelessness we must cultivate in ourselves a particularized and 'perfect brightness of hope,' he writes. "We will surely need, too, genuine patience, not only with others but also with ourselves, for impatience so often opens the door for despair and contempt. . . . Though we feel weak, our help is much needed by those . . . converts coming into the Church who will be undertaking the very same 'mighty change' in their hearts and lives. "As together we become less spotted by the world and more pure-achieving this condition in a time of gross immorality and corruption-then we can become worthy of being called 'true believers in Christ.'" Notwithstanding My Weakness presents a reassuring message of hope for those who are discouraged, who are weighed down with stress and anxiety, who feel weak and inadequate. To those who do overcome their weaknesses and imperfections, the promise is truly "The kingdom is yours." (D&C 38:15.)

Genres: Religion, Church, Lds, Nonfiction, Faith, Spirituality

129 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1981

About the author

Neal A. Maxwell was well known as an Apostle, author, administrator, and educator. A graduate of the University of Utah, he was the Commissioner of Education for the Church Educational System for six years. He also held a variety of administrative and teaching positions at the University of Utah, including that of executive vice-president.

In 1974 Elder Maxwell was called as an Assistant to the Council of the Twelve. From 1976 to 1981 he served as member of the Presidency of the First Quorum of the Seventy, and in 1981 was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

Elder Maxwell has written numerous books on Latter-day Saint themes, including "If Thou Endure It Well"; "Lord, Increase Our Faith"; "That Ye May Believe"; and "Not My Will, But Thine". He and his wife, Colleen Hinckley Maxwell, had four children.

Elder Maxwell died July 21, 2004.

Reviews

[Shiloah · Rating 5 out of 5]

“God is anxious to take us as far as we who are weak are willing to go in this journey toward perfection. It will not be He who disappoints. He knows our possibilities and will not settle for less, though, alas, we may. He knows what we need, while we merely know what we want.” -Neal A. Maxwell
Life & perspective changing gem.

[Timber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Maxwells "hands on" approach in this book. It is written in terms more plain than many of his other books & tackles the topic of how to become a true follower of Christ. He speaks directly to the audience, telling how YOU can be more Christlike and how to focus more on your own spirituality. I enjoyed this book :)

[Nancyann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here are my favorite quotes from this book:
        "Patience helps us to use, rather than to protest, these seeming flat periods of life, becoming filled with quiet wonder over the past and with anticipation for that which may lie ahead."
        "When we are patiently growing and keeping the commandments of God and doing our duties, we are to that extent succeeding, a fact from which we should derive some quiet, inner reassurance."

[Reed Wolfley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maxwell does it again. Uses parts of other books he has written, but doesn’t stop it from being a classic.

[Kim Dennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first few chapters were great. I didn't enjoy the last couple of chapters quite as well, but Maxwell is always great.

[Hope Garfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The trends of a particular time cannot alter the eternal laws of God, nor can we give up just because there is a general giving way."

[Elizabeth Ricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elder Maxwell is such an artist with words. This book needs to be read slowly because it is hard to grasp everything all at once. A wonderful book!

[Sarah Tulane · Rating 5 out of 5]

There were plenty of plates of humble pie served in this book, while simultaneously being encouraging and understanding

[Janalyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I accompanied this with scripture study and I needed what this book brought to me. I love looking at the importance of just one scriptural phrase such as "notwhithstanding my weakness" and leting it turn over in my mind until it really changes my understanding. I love Neal A. Maxwell's writing. I love his directness, but his empathy interwined in the words. I feel more hopeful, and am reminded to "be of good cheer."

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't have enough words to express how I feel about this book. Probably one of the most introspective books. The writing is not difficult. There is one chapter toward the end of the book where his opinion overtakes the sentiment, however still some great writing and pros on understanding personal weakness and how to grow.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this brief read by Elder Maxwell. He talks about the progress that we all can, and do make, despite our many weaknesses. It will be a lift for anyone who feels particularly bogged down by their own flaws.

[Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

I especially enjoyed the chapters on becoming a saint and what it means to be a true believer of Jesus Christ. Elder Maxwell always makes me want to be a better person.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book. Quick yet powerful read.

[Jeff Crosby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maxwell is a personal favorite.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another MUST read for the Latter Day Saint.