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Review and Feedback of “Be 100 Percent Responsible” by Elder Lynn G. Robbins (BYU Devotional, August 22, 2017)
From an LDS Perspective
Elder Lynn G. Robbins delivered a masterful and timely devotional address that should be required listening for every Latter-day Saint striving to walk the covenant path with greater integrity and discipleship. His central message, that agency and responsibility are inseparably connected, is not only doctrinally sound but also urgently needed in today’s world of blame, entitlement, and moral relativism.
Catch the full speech here: https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/lynn-g-robbins/be-100-percent-responsible/
From the beginning, Elder Robbins draws on both scripture and personal experience to underscore that true agency does not exist without full accountability. This isn’t just motivational advice; it’s rooted in eternal law. He reminds us that agency without responsibility is Satan’s counterfeit, a dangerous distortion that leads to spiritual destruction. His reference to the “Korihor Principle” and the “Nehor Principle” connects ancient apostasy with modern rationalizations for sin, showing how these same lies resurface in new clothing.
The anti-responsibility list he outlines is striking in its clarity. Each item is a mirror, forcing listeners to examine their own habits and justifications. Laman and Lemuel are used effectively as scriptural case studies in what happens when people reject accountability. The contrast with Nephi couldn’t be more clear. Nephi acted in faith and accepted responsibility even when the odds were against him. He didn’t blame or complain. He acted.
What elevates this talk beyond doctrine is the practical wisdom. The story of the two warehouse employees learning to take full ownership of their work was not only insightful but illustrative of gospel principles in action. It showed how the shift from excuse-making to full responsibility transforms lives. The lesson on marriage and the woman who chose humility over pride is another powerful application of Christlike living.
Even more poignant was the section on abuse and forgiveness. Elder Robbins does not shy away from the difficulty and anguish victims face. He acknowledges the pain while upholding doctrinal truth. Forgiveness, he explains, is not condoning sin but trusting God’s justice and allowing the Savior’s Atonement to heal. That distinction is critical, and it was presented with compassion and strength. His teaching that forgiving doesn’t set the offender free, it sets you free, will resonate with many.
Doctrinally, this talk is solid. Elder Robbins weaves together the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and teachings of modern prophets with clarity and conviction. His message aligns perfectly with the plan of salvation and the Savior’s invitation to become like Him. Christ is our example of perfect responsibility, suffering innocently yet never blaming, never excusing, always forgiving.
In a world increasingly ruled by victimhood, moral compromise, and finger-pointing, this talk is a prophetic call to rise above the natural man. It is a challenge to every disciple of Christ to reject the excuses and embrace the refining path of responsibility, repentance, and real spiritual maturity.
Final Thought:
This devotional is one of the most relevant and spiritually empowering addresses given in recent years. It is bold, doctrinal, and practical. As members of the Church, we are blessed with prophets and leaders who teach eternal truth in a world full of deception. Elder Robbins reminds us that being 100 percent responsible is not just about self-improvement. It is about discipleship. It is about becoming like Christ.
